Seattle police are currently looking into alarming reports that one of their officers sprayed Mace in the face of a young girl during recent protests. Over the weekend, demonstrations erupted across the United States and worldwide in response to the death of George Floyd, with many participants calling for an end to police violence against the Black community and seeking concrete measures to address systemic racism. However, multiple accounts indicate that some of these peaceful protests were met with aggression from law enforcement.
This particular incident has gained significant attention online, with claims asserting that a Seattle officer used Mace on a child. In response, the Seattle Police Department announced that they are initiating an investigation into the matter. “All uses of force by SPD officers will be thoroughly examined, and those found to have acted inappropriately will be held accountable,” stated Kelsey Nyland, a spokesperson for the mayor’s office. “Building and maintaining trust within the community is of utmost importance.”
Footage from the incident shows adult bystanders attempting to comfort the distressed child, with one person pouring milk on her face to counteract the effects of the pepper spray, as the milk’s alkalinity can help neutralize the irritant. Photographer Evan Hreha, who recorded the incident, reported that witnesses claimed the girl was indeed sprayed by a police officer.
As Hreha recounted to Buzzfeed News, the protests were largely peaceful prior to the event, with moments of prayer for peace occurring just before law enforcement’s aggressive actions began. Following an altercation, demonstrators, including the child, were seen fleeing while screaming in pain. In the background of the videos, protestors can be heard demanding badge numbers from police officers. While many complied, the officer believed to have sprayed the girl did not provide his number and had it covered.
Nyland further mentioned that the Seattle Police Department is instructing individuals on how to file formal complaints regarding the mace usage during the protests. Both the mayor’s office and the police have refrained from making direct comments about the incident involving the young girl or identifying the officer involved. However, they acknowledged the serious nature of the claims in an official statement. “During the protests, amid instances of property damage and confrontations, there were multiple arrests, including one that has drawn media attention,” the statement read, adding that any force used will undergo rigorous scrutiny from various oversight bodies.
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In summary, the Seattle Police Department is investigating claims that an officer used Mace on a child during protests, a situation that has raised significant public concern. The department has stated that all uses of force will be scrutinized to ensure accountability and maintain community trust.