Police Misconduct or Justifiable Use of Force?
The Orange County, California, “Kelly Thomas” case involves several police officers being charged with crimes for allegedly assaulting and killing Kelly Thomas. The key question being looked at this week during the preliminary hearing is whether or not the officers were justified in their conduct and whether or not there is sufficient evidence to prosecute the officers in the criminal case. [update- Judge found sufficient evidence and officers will be prosecuted]
Below is the unedited video of the incident. You decide.
According to the Orange County Register Newspaper (good link of Kelly Thomas resources/updates…), the videotape, shown in public for the first time during the preliminary hearing Monday, showed an escalating situation that abruptly became violent when Ramos (police officer) put on rubber gloves and said, “Now, you see my fists? … They’re getting ready to f— you up … if you don’t start f—– listening.”
Within moments, Ramos and another officer strike Thomas with a baton before taking him to the ground, according to the video, and land on him as he begins screaming “I’m sorry dude! … I’m sorry! … I can’t breathe, dude … I can’t breathe, sir! Please, help!” and later “Help, Dad! Dad! Help me, Dad!”
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Join us live on Spreecast (Monday, May 14, 2012 at 11 a.m. PDT) to discuss the Kelly Thomas case in more detail (live video discussion). If you are unable to participate in the live “real-time” Spreecast, please use this same link to watch the recorded discussion at your leisure…
http://www.spreecast.com/
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New video released http://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/New-Video-Released-From-Night-of-Kelly-Thomas-Beating-194088451.html
Mitch... this is truly beyond belief! I am speechless and very sad for this man's family. This kind of violence and brutality from our police force was unwarranted and unacceptable. This is EXACTLY the reason why we need to have the right to photograph and video tape our police force.
On Monday at 11 a.m. PDT, we're going to discuss the Kelly Thomas case (alleged police misconduct resulting in Mr. Thomas' death in Orange County, CA) on Spreecast. Here's the link to our Monday Spreecast: http://www.spreecast.com/events/kelly-thomas-case If you're interested in joining us, please watch the 30 minute video (it's very graphic and might be difficult for some to watch) and review some of the links and articles found here: http://jacksonandwilson.com/kelly-thomas/ If you haven't already done so, visit Spreecast and set up a free account. It only takes about 60 seconds. Thanks!