Thirteen days after President Donald Trump signed three executive orders to “restore safety in America” by protecting law enforcement, we see yet another example of why his actions appear to be misplaced.
In Anaheim, protests are taking place after an overzealous off-duty cop — who allegedly assaulted a 13-year-old boy — shot his gun around a group of kids on Tuesday (Feb 21). The LAPD officer, who’s name has not been released, accused the teenagers of walking on his property.
Video recorded and posted to social media show the officer grabbing the teen and forcibly dragging him through a grass hedge. When the kids standing by try to intervene by pushing the cop, he appears to become more enraged and exposes his gun tucked into the top of his pants.
The person holding the camera then walks away and a gun shot is heard.
According to the ACLU, Anaheim police officers then arrived on the scene and arrested two of the teenagers, but not the LAPD officer. The 13-year-old was booked for criminal threats and battery; a 15-year-old was arrested for assault and battery.
On Wednesday around 300 protesters gathered at the officers residence and walked through the streets. The police department has also had an influx of calls from concerned citizens and parents.
“Calling and sending emails to APD voicing your displeasure will NOT impact the outcome,” the department posted on its Facebook page. “A decision whether or not to file charges rests with the District Attorney’s office and is based on facts and evidence.”
The LAPD’s Force Investigation Division is also looking into the altercation and the officer has been placed on administrative leave.
