LAPD officer videotaped kicking restrained suspect's head like a football
A Los Angeles police (LAPD) officer is under investigation for allegedly beating and kicking a suspect, who was being held down by other officers. On October 24, 2014, LAPD Chief Charlie Beck released a statement that he was “extremely concerned about this particular use of force.”
The victim, Clinton Alford, 22, was taken to a hospital for stitches and a head scan. In an interview with the LA Times, he reported being in fear for his life during the encounter. “I was just praying that they wouldn’t kill me. I just closed my eyes and tried to hold on,” Alford said.
Alford was riding his bicycle on the sidewalk, when a car pulled up behind him. He heard a man shouting a command to stop, without first identifying himself as a police officer. When someone grabbed the back of his bike, Alford jumped off and ran. After a short foot pursuit, two LAPD officers caught up to him. Footage from the security camera on an industrial building nearby captured Alford voluntarily lying down and placing his hands behind his back.
Several police officials who viewed the recording said that the officers were able to restrain Alford, who made no movements and did not resist. Two law enforcement officials who viewed the video said it was clear to them Alford was handcuffed as soon as he got on the ground.
