Recently released bodycam footage reveals a troubling incident involving two Phoenix police officers and a deaf Black man, Tyron McAlpin. The footage shows officers shouting orders at McAlpin as he lies face-down on the ground, with one officer punching him repeatedly and another officer using a taser on him.
McAlpin, who is deaf, was initially accused of theft but the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office later dropped the charge. However, he now faces charges of aggravated assault and resisting arrest after allegedly taking a 'fighting stance' when approached by an officer.
The incident began when police were trying to question McAlpin in connection with a reported bike theft. Surveillance footage shows an officer approaching McAlpin in a parking lot, leading to a physical confrontation.
During the scuffle, McAlpin raised his arms in what appeared to be a defensive stance, prompting the officers to pin him to the ground. Despite McAlpin's deafness, officers repeatedly shouted commands at him, leading to further escalation.
Following the arrest, civil rights groups and disability advocacy organizations have called for the charges against McAlpin to be dropped, citing concerns about the officers' handling of the situation. The incident has sparked public outcry and prompted a review of the case by Maricopa County’s top prosecutor.
McAlpin's lawyer emphasized that his client's deafness played a significant role in the events, as he may not have fully understood the officers' commands. The lack of specific training on handling hearing-impaired individuals was also highlighted during a preliminary hearing on the case.
The Phoenix Law Enforcement Association has urged the public to withhold judgment until all evidence is reviewed, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive understanding of the situation.
McAlpin's trial is scheduled for late February, with ongoing scrutiny of the incident and calls for justice for the deaf man at the center of the controversy.
