Los Angeles Council President Demands Answers Over Video of Police Officers Dropping Off Homeless Man

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
08/06/2024 21h30

In a shocking incident captured on security cameras, two Burbank Police officers are under investigation for allegedly abandoning a homeless man near the office of Los Angeles City Council President. The video footage, released by Councilman Paul Krekorian, shows the officers leaving the man on the ground as they drive away.

The incident took place on June 6 in North Hollywood, where the officers arrived in a marked vehicle and handcuffed the unidentified man. They later removed the handcuffs but left him lying on the ground. The man, who was barefoot at the time, remained on the ground in a prone position.

Councilman Krekorian expressed his outrage during a news conference, describing the officers' actions as "callous, cruel, inhumane, and fundamentally irresponsible." Fortunately, Krekorian's office staff managed to locate the man and provide him with the necessary medical care after viewing the security footage.

Councilman Krekorian emphasized his disappointment at the officers' lack of assistance and their failure to explore options for helping the homeless individual. He promptly contacted the Burbank mayor's office regarding the incident, prompting an in-depth investigation by the Burbank Police Department.

Responding to the incident, Burbank Mayor Nick Schultz stated that the city takes the matter seriously and is committed to supporting unhoused residents in finding stable and secure living conditions. The Burbank Police Department provided additional details about the officers' encounter with the man.

According to police reports, officers responded to a call of a man sitting naked at a bus stop outside Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center around 8:45 a.m. on Thursday. When approached, the man refused an offer of clothes, claiming he already had his own. He identified himself as homeless and revealed that he had voluntarily left the hospital, declining any medical assistance.

In an attempt to gain cooperation, the officers offered to drive the man to a location of his choice. Eventually, he agreed to be transported to the Metro Red Line in North Hollywood, but during the ride, he asked to be let out to get coffee. The officers complied with his request, promptly pulling over to allow him to exit the patrol vehicle.

The Burbank Police Department assured the public that they are thoroughly reviewing all evidence in the case, including body-worn camera footage and witness statements. They expressed gratitude to Councilman Krekorian for bringing the incident to their attention.

Councilman Krekorian highlighted the importance of law enforcement agencies taking greater care in their handling of unhoused individuals. He stressed that the incident caught on a random security camera is likely just one example of a larger issue occurring without public awareness.

As the investigation continues, many are calling for increased training and awareness for law enforcement officials to effectively address the ongoing crisis of homelessness in the city. The incident has ignited further debate and calls for concrete action to provide adequate support and resources to those experiencing homelessness in Los Angeles.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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