OfficerBlueMuncie, IN – Video captured the arrest of a suspected drug dealer on Sunday, and has been viral with people claiming it shows brutality (video below.)
Muncie Police Chief Joe Winkle quickly addressed the press and explained the the force used was necessary to effect the arrest.
The incident started when police were called to the Taco Bell at 2201 S. Madison St., just before 4 p.m., for a report of an intoxicated man in the parking lot, according to The Star Press.
Officers arrived and made contact with Joshua Douglas, 36, who refused to obey officers’ commands and fled on foot. During the pursuit, he allegedly tossed a bag containing 65 grams of crystal methamphetamine.
The officers caught him and took him to the ground. While on the ground, he moved his hands under his body and refused to comply with officers’ commands.
Not knowing if Douglas was going for a weapon, one of the officers began striking Douglas to get his hands behind his back.
Chief Winkle told the press that the use of force is under review, but the situation would have been avoided if Douglas has just complied.
“He wouldn’t show his hands,” Chief Winkle said, according to The Star Press. “When you run from the police… we don’t know what is in your hands.”
The chief explained that the strikes are one of the few force options available when a suspect is hiding his hands.
The Star Press reports that DOC records show that Douglas has a prior criminal history involving at least 6 drug-related felonies in Marion County.
He also has a conviction for robbery in 2008.
Douglas has been booked into the Delaware County jail on charges of possession of methamphetamine, resisting law enforcement, and possession of a controlled substance. He is being held on $17,500 bond.
You can see the video of the incident below.