An Arkansas police officer has been fired after a video surfaced, allegedly showing him beating a man who was handcuffed in the back of a patrol car. The officer, Joseph Harris, was terminated effective immediately following an internal review of the incident, according to a statement from the Jonesboro police department.
Jonesboro, located in northeast Arkansas, is approximately 70 miles from Memphis, Tennessee. The police department has posted video of the incident online, which depicts Harris allegedly assaulting a man who was handcuffed and seated in the back of the patrol car, wearing what appears to be a hospital gown.
Jonesboro Police Chief Rick Elliott has been in communication with the FBI, and the Little Rock office has opened a case regarding the incident. The video shows the man, who had reportedly swallowed a bag of fentanyl the previous day, expressing his fear of dying unless he was taken back to a hospital.
Video Evidence of Police Assault
In the video released by the police department, the man can be heard pleading with the officers. At one point, he unbuckles his seatbelt and lays down in the back seat. The video then shows Harris opening the door and beginning to punch and elbow the man in the head repeatedly.
Another officer, who has not been identified, checks on the man and inquires if he is alright. However, the man appears unresponsive after the assault. The officer then closes the car door on the man’s feet. Harris returns to the scene and seemingly rubs the man’s chest with an object, which causes him to twist and groan in pain, before closing the door on his head.
As the patrol car drives away, the man, still lying down, continues to yell and groan in distress.
Officer’s History of Excessive Force
This incident is not the first time Harris has faced scrutiny for his use of force. Approximately two years ago, he was reportedly given a 20-hour suspension without pay and mandated to undergo further training for excessive force. Harris was also named in a wrongful death lawsuit filed in June, highlighting a troubling pattern of behavior.
Implications and Future Trends in Police Accountability
The incident raises significant questions regarding police accountability and the use of force. As video evidence becomes more prevalent, the public is increasingly demanding transparency and accountability from law enforcement. The implications of this incident extend beyond the immediate case, reflecting a broader movement toward reform in policing practices.
Emerging trends in police accountability suggest a shift toward more stringent oversight and the use of body cameras and other recording devices. As communities seek to hold officers accountable for their actions, the demand for reform is likely to grow. The public’s access to video evidence can serve as a powerful tool in advocating for change and ensuring that officers who engage in misconduct are held accountable.
In light of this incident, police departments may need to reevaluate their training programs and the protocols in place for handling individuals in distress. As the conversation around police reform continues to evolve, departments that prioritize transparency and accountability may be more successful in rebuilding public trust.
Recommendations for the Future
As the landscape of policing continues to change, law enforcement agencies should consider the following recommendations:
- Implement comprehensive training programs focused on de-escalation techniques and mental health awareness.
- Enhance the use of body cameras and ensure that footage is accessible for public review.
- Establish independent review boards to investigate incidents of excessive force.
- Foster community engagement to rebuild trust and ensure that the voices of the public are heard in discussions of policing practices.
As the public continues to demand accountability and transparency, the future of policing may hinge on the ability of law enforcement agencies to adapt and evolve in response to community needs and expectations.
