Rock Hill Officer Faces Scrutiny After Alleged Assault on Homeless Man
ROCK HILL, S.C. —
A video circulating on social media has raised serious concerns about the conduct of a Rock Hill Police officer following an incident involving a homeless man outside a local Publix grocery store.
What Happened
The incident reportedly occurred when the officer was dispatched to remove the homeless man from outside the store. Eyewitness accounts and the video show the officer forcefully restraining the man on the ground while he is heard screaming for help.
Details From the Video
The footage captures a shocking moment as the officer appears to use a stun gun on the man, who is already being held down. Instructions to “roll over” and “put [your] hands behind [your] back” are heard, even as the officer delivers repeated punches to the man’s face.
Response from the Family
The family of the homeless man is now seeking justice. Attorney Josh Kendrick, representing the family, described the video as both “disturbing and targeted.” He emphasized that the officer’s actions were contradictory, stating, “You can watch the video and see that he’s giving him instructions but he’s also physically preventing him from complying.“
Official Reaction
In response to the incident, the Rock Hill Police Department confirmed that the officer involved has been placed on administrative leave while an internal investigation is conducted. The department issued a statement indicating that the officer was responding to a call from Publix regarding the man’s presence outside the establishment.
Community Concerns
Local community members are rallying around the victim’s family, expressing outrage over the treatment of vulnerable individuals. Kendrick added, “Everybody has to behave in a certain way and when you put on a badge you’ve got a much higher responsibility to the public.” This sentiment resonates with many who advocate for more humane treatment for homeless individuals.
What’s Next
The family is determined to ensure that similar incidents do not occur in the future. Their call for action reflects a broader concern regarding the treatment of marginalized populations by law enforcement.
Conclusion
The ongoing investigation will seek to provide clarity and accountability regarding the actions of the Rock Hill officer. Community members hope for a resolution that emphasizes the need for responsible policing, especially in interactions with those who are homeless or otherwise vulnerable.
Contact Information
For further inquiries, members of the public are encouraged to reach out through appropriate channels related to law enforcement and community services.
