In a distressing incident captured on video in Ohio, a 21-year-old man, Jaemiier McElroy, was forcefully kicked by Officer Brandon Momirov while kneeling with his hands raised. The event occurred on Saturday as police responded to a disturbance in the Mahoning Manor parking lot.
BODYCAM VIDEO: Canton police release footage showing officer kicking suspect
The Canton Police Department has released body camera footage capturing the events surrounding Officer Brandon Momirov kicking 21-year-old Jaemiier McElroy while he was kneeling on the ground with his… pic.twitter.com/kBj2Vb7WCu
— T_CAS videos (@tecas2000) August 29, 2024
The video shows McElroy surrounded by officers and appearing to comply with their commands when he was suddenly struck. The impact knocked him onto his back, and he later experienced severe swelling and a concussion. McElroy was hospitalized due to the injuries sustained during the arrest.
Despite his compliance, McElroy was charged with resisting arrest, alongside two others who were apprehended for obstructing official business and resisting arrest. The police also recovered two pistols and a backpack containing marijuana, scales, and money from the scene.
Man kneeling on ground with hands up was kicked in chest by cop, man hospitalized and charged with resisting arrest, obstruction. pic.twitter.com/xyKk2wBFhY
— Zeno Calhoun (@zenoc_oshits) August 27, 2024
Bodycam footage reveals a tense scene with Officer Momirov rushing in and immediately delivering the kick without hesitation. This action has led to significant controversy and criticism of the police handling of the situation.
Attorney Bobby DiCello, representing McElroy, criticized the leadership within the city and the police department, calling for the termination of the officer involved. Canton Police Chief John Gabbard acknowledged the incident, stating the officer would be held accountable for his actions, which were outside the training parameters.
A video shows a #CantonOhioPolice Officer Brandon Momirov kicking a compliant suspect, #JaemiierMcElroy, while on the ground. This is why we demand Justice – Police Brutality must end. 🗣️ Justice for Jaemiier as the struggle continues #Anonymous pic.twitter.com/fBJw9AAdgL
— Anonymous (@AnonymousGlobal) August 28, 2024
The community’s response has been one of shock and outrage, with demands for immediate action and reform. Canton’s mayor and the NAACP have both expressed deep concerns over the incident, highlighting the need for systemic changes within the local police force. A new oversight board is being considered to ensure such incidents are thoroughly reviewed and addressed.
Major Points:
- Jaemiier McElroy, 21, was kicked by Officer Brandon Momirov in Ohio while kneeling with his hands raised, resulting in severe injuries including a concussion.
- The incident occurred during a police response to a disturbance in a parking lot, with bodycam footage capturing the officer’s aggressive approach.
- McElroy was charged with resisting arrest, and authorities also arrested two others at the scene, recovering firearms and drugs.
- The Canton Police Chief acknowledged the officer’s actions were outside of training guidelines and promised accountability.
- Outrage and calls for reform followed the incident, with local leaders and the NAACP advocating for the creation of an oversight board to review police conduct.
Susan Guglielmo – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
