Photo: Douglas Sacha / Moment / Getty Images
An Albany police officer is under scrutiny following a video that surfaced showing a physical confrontation with bystanders during an arrest. The incident, which occurred on November 4 in front of the Albany Public Library on Washington Avenue, was captured on video and shared online. In the footage, the officer is seen on top of a woman, punching her in the head and face area, while a bystander urges her to comply. The officer is heard threatening to punch her again, and the situation escalates as three other officers intervene to handcuff the woman and place her in a police vehicle. She was charged with assault, resisting arrest, harassment, and obstructing governmental administration, and was arraigned on November 5.
The video continues after the arrest, showing the officer engaging with bystanders and pushing a man twice before another officer steps in to de-escalate the situation. The Community Police Review Board (CPRB) sent a statement to CBS6, expressing concern over the incident. Mayor-Elect Dorcey Applyrs acknowledged the situation, stating she was deeply troubled and confirmed that an internal investigation is underway. The CPRB, which was brought under city control earlier this year, has faced operational challenges, including the resignation of three members, which has left the board unable to function effectively.
The internal review by the Albany Police Department aims to assess the officer's conduct during the arrest and the subsequent interaction with bystanders. The incident has sparked discussions about police conduct and community relations in Albany.