Phoenix police officers are currently under investigation after a deaf Black man with cerebral palsy was punched and tasered during an arrest. The incident took place on August 19 when officers Benjamin Harris and Kyle Sue tackled 34-year-old Tyron McAlpin, as shown in body camera footage. The video, released recently, captured the officers repeatedly punching and tasing McAlpin, who was pinned down on the ground.
The confrontation began as McAlpin was walking through a parking lot, looking down at his phone, before officers approached him in a police vehicle. Despite McAlpin’s attempts to avoid the car, one officer quickly exited the vehicle, grabbed him, and accused him of taking a fighting stance. The situation escalated as the officers forcefully subdued McAlpin, leading to punches and the use of a taser.
Following the arrest, McAlpin was charged with resisting arrest and assaulting a police officer. However, the situation took a turn when a woman approached the scene claiming to be McAlpin’s wife, revealing that he was deaf and had cerebral palsy. She explained that she communicated with him using sign language, highlighting the communication challenges McAlpin faced during the encounter.
Civil rights groups and elected officials have condemned the officers’ actions, with the Arizona Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing expressing dismay over the incident. State Representative Analise Ortiz called for justice for McAlpin and criticised the Phoenix Police Department for its continued use of excessive force and racial profiling.
The case has attracted attention not only due to the violent nature of the arrest but also in light of a recent report by the Justice Department which highlighted discriminatory practices within the Phoenix Police Department. As a result, Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell has pledged to personally review the case to ensure thorough scrutiny.
Despite the backlash, officers Harris and Sue are still actively working within the police force. The incident has raised concerns about police conduct, especially towards individuals with disabilities. The case continues to prompt discussions around accountability and justice within law enforcement.