Police Investigating After Video Shows Officers Punching Man Outside Towson Bar

BALTIMORE COUNTY, Md. (WJZ) -- Was it excessive force? An investigation is underway after cell phone video captured an officer punching a man outside a Towson bar. The incident happened Saturday morning.

Tracey Leong explains why police are concerned.

Police say the suspect became combative resisting arrest but the force used to restrain him is now being questioned.

Several blows to the head from an officer were caught on cell phone video as police tried to subdue 19-year-old Zachary Blumenstein outside the Greene Turtle in Towson.

"Wow, that's crazy," said Douglass Smith, who works nearby.

The video went viral and is disturbing to some viewers---including elected officials.

"As far as I'm concerned, it crosses the line," said Senator Jim Brochin.

Senator Brochin, who represents Towson, says the video demonstrates excessive force.

"Seven punches to the head isn't the way," he said.

And police are now launching their own investigation.

"This is not a move taught in our academy. The chief has concerns this was not the most effective," said Elise Armacost, Baltimore County police.

The video is actually the suspect's second time interacting with police. Just 40 minutes before, they told him to leave the area.

"He was combative from the moment the officer first interacted with him," Armacost said.

Police say Blumenstein was arguing with several people outside the Greene Turtle when officers ran into him a second time. They say Blumenstein was pushing a man into the road. That's when police tried to arrest Blumenstein. They say he became angry, shouting and resisting arrest. Officers wrestled Blumenstein to the ground, even using pepper spray to subdue him.

The department added that in certain situations, officers may need to use force to protect themselves but some are wondering if this went too far.

"I think it's an issue of training and looking at all the different circumstances and where to use force or apply," Brochin said.

Blumenstein is facing several charges, including disorderly conduct and resisting arrest.

There have been no actions taken against the officers in this video and their names have not been released.