Baltimore County Police Chief Orders Investigation Into 'Unsettling' Arrest Of 76-Year-Old Grandmother Caught On Camera
BALTIMORE COUNTY, Md. (WJZ) — Baltimore County Police Chief Melissa Hyatt has ordered an investigation into an incident that occurred last Friday.
A video surfaced that showed a Baltimore County Police officer run-up to a 76-year-old woman and forcefully take her down.
In a statement, Hyatt said a bystander recorded video of an interaction between officers and two people that she said is "unsettling to watch and raises concerns."
Hyatt said the review will involve viewing body-worn camera footage of the whole incident, interviews and reviewing documents related to the incident.
After the investigation is completed, the footage is set to be released.
"I thank the individual who taped the incident -- our residents are important partners in our communities. We hold our officers to a high standard of accountability," Hyatt said. "Maintaining the trust of those who live, work and visit Baltimore County is paramount as we continue to work together to keep communities safe."
County Executive Johnny Olszewski released a statement later Tuesday afternoon calling the video concerning.
"Every resident of the Baltimore County community deserves to be treated with respect by law enforcement," he said. "This video raises serious concerns and warrants a full and thorough investigation. I have spoken with Chief Hyatt about this encounter, and she has assured me that there will be a complete review of [sic] entire incident."
Neighbors said officers were there to speak with the woman's granddaughter.
"She's human," Ethel Joy, a Baltimore County resident, said. "She's someone's mother, grandmother, sister... She's my friend. To see them treat her that way, I didn't like it at all."
Neighbors told WJZ the woman has lived on the block for decades with no problems. She now faces three charges, including assault.
