video of an LAPD officer detaining a teen for filming an arrest went viral, sparking controversy and spirited discussions about whether or not citizens should be allowed to videotape the police.
A Los Angeles Police Department officer named Victor Quezada and a coworker are shown in the video apprehending three teenagers in a parking lot. One of the teenagers is afterwards seen tussling with Quezada, who is apparently trying to steal his phone to stop him from filming. In outrage, the public started to swarm the area.
LAPD Officer flips out because a kid is filming a detainment.
This was at a movie night hosted by the Harbor City Council & the LAPD. pic.twitter.com/6F8emeZV9X
— Film The Police LA (@FilmThePoliceLA) September 5, 2022
One can be heard repeatedly saying:
“Don’t do that!”
Another LAPD officer may be seen menacing nearby residents with a taser as Quezada subdues the teenager. One of the three youths can be heard constantly questioning why he is being arrested as the three are lined up against the car by the police.
Netizen reacts to LAPD officers arresting the teens
Given the high-profile examples of police misbehaviour and brutality that have been reported nationwide, there have been many doubts made regarding the arrest’s techniques by the authorities, who have been accused of going too far.
This kid has never been in trouble before. But because he exercised his First Amendment right he was targeted and arrested. His bail was set at $25,000, forcing his mom to pay $2,500 (non-refundable) to get him out.
This is wrong. These cops need to be held accountable. pic.twitter.com/p4oaFUP347
— Film The Police LA (@FilmThePoliceLA) September 5, 2022
Many internet users made comments about how crucial it was for citizens to record police in order to hold them accountable for their conduct as the video circulated online. from dust, who posted a comment, said:
$25,000 seems excessively high for a non crime
— KatWina 🇺🇲 (@SerendipityOr) September 5, 2022