Cellphone video reportedly showing a Vallejo, California, police officer subduing a man has some witnesses accusing the officer of using excessive force.
The incident occurred Friday afternoon after someone called 911 about a man acting “crazy” at a gas station. Bystanders alleged the responding Vallejo officer chased the unidentified suspect for several minutes before the suspect sat down in the street and the cop took him to the ground.
“The kid surrendered,” a witness, who wished to be anonymous, told KPIX. “The cop, on the other hand, came up right behind him and he was tired too. But he immediately dove on the kid and started wailing on him.”
The man can be heard repeatedly saying “I am God, I am God” while the officer beats him with his fists and flashlight. An onlooker is also heard yelling “police brutality” amid the chaos. Witnesses told KRON that the suspect was unarmed.
Later in the video, another cop assists the officer while the original responding officer tells the crowd to “get the f*** back” and brandishes his gun. A third cop orders several people to get out of the street.
The Vallejo Police Department said they are aware of the incident and are looking into it, according to KRON. Vallejo Police Lieutenant Jeff Bassett said the following in a statement:
“Just like anyone, else officers are innocent until proven guilty. Violence is always ugly but police officers are exposed to violent situations everyday and they are required to overcome that violence not just match it. We will investigate this matter and will take the appropriate action if any policy or law has been broken.”
One officer was injured in the skirmish. The suspect is facing charges of resisting arrest and being under the influence.
[Feature Photo: Screenshot/ Facebook]