Photo: amphotora / iStock / Getty Images
Albany Police Chief Brendan Cox updated the Common Council on Monday (November 17) regarding an investigation into an officer's use of excessive force during a November 4 incident. The incident, captured on video and widely shared on social media, shows an officer punching a woman while attempting to handcuff her and shoving another person. According to NEWS10 ABC, the investigation began after a supervisor reviewed the incident, not due to social media or news reports.
Chief Cox emphasized the importance of procedural justice and a thorough investigation. "I want that investigation to be transparent," he stated, noting the need for due process. The Albany Police Department's Office of Professional Standards is conducting the internal review. The officer involved remains on duty during the investigation.
The incident occurred outside the Albany Public Library, where the officer responded to a fight. The woman involved was charged with second-degree assault, harassment, obstructing governmental administration, and resisting arrest. Spectrum News reports that the woman allegedly resisted arrest and bit the officer.
The city's Community Police Review Board has opened a complaint but cannot hold public meetings due to insufficient members. Common Council Public Safety Chairman Thomas Hoey assured the public of a thorough investigation, stressing the importance of gathering all facts beyond social media snippets. Mayor Kathy Sheehan and Mayor-elect Dorcey Applyrs have expressed their support for a comprehensive investigation.