A disturbing video circulating on social media has Elizabeth City residents heated after showing a local Elizabeth City police officer shoving a clearly homeless man.
And for what? Absolutely no reason at all.
Social Media Video Shows Unprovoked Force By Elizabeth City Cop
The footage, which began circulating last Friday, shows a man pushing a shopping cart in Elizabeth City, North Carolina — which clearly holds all his personal belongings.
As he minds his own business, two Elizabeth City Police Department (ECPD) officers — a male and a female — are seen following him. There’s obvious distance between them, and while words may be exchanged, nothing appears hostile or threatening.
The male officer suddenly speeds up and appears to motion for the man to go a different direction.
Seconds later, he grabs the man, knocking his cart over. Then, with no visible provocation, the officer shoves the man.
Police Say They’re Investigating — But The Streets Want Justice
After the video went viral, the Elizabeth City Police Department released a statement on Friday, September 19, confirming that a complaint had been received regarding excessive force. The agency says it is “consulting with the District Attorney’s Office and Internal Affairs” as part of an investigation.
“The Elizabeth City Police Department has worked hard to build a strong, positive relationship with our community, and we will continue to be forthcoming and transparent with information on this incident,” the statement read.
But folks online aren’t buying it — and say the homeless man has yet to receive any justice. As of Friday, September 26, no disciplinary action or charges had been announced.
Many Elizabeth City residents are accusing the department of trying to sweep it under the rug and protect one of their own.
1 thought on “Elizabeth City Cop Caught On Camera Shoving Homeless Man”
The officers name is Douglas Lane, jr. He WAS a close family friend.