Kirkland Police Chief Responds To YMCA Claims Of Excessive Force

[Yo_Mama_Been_Loggin]

KIRKLAND — Kirkland city officials are responding after video of an arrest inside the YMCA in September was made public. Wednesday, the YMCA of Greater Seattle held a press conference, calling the arrest of a 14-year-old teen boy an "intense and traumatic" use of police force.

In the video, an officer is seen struggling with the teen in a doorway, then spinning him around and taking him to the ground. YMCA staff also reported an officer pointed a taser at another teen and used profanity during the arrest.

"The police officers' behavior and the level of force were unacceptable and annoy be condoned anywhere in our community, especially in a safe place for teens," said Loria Yeadon, CEO of the YMCA of Greater Seattle.

According to police, law enforcement first became aware of the teen earlier in the day, after school officials at Juanita High School notified a school resource officer that a group of young men were trespassing and planning to assault a student at the school. Throughout the day, police said four other 911 calls came in related to the same group of teens, including a package theft and the theft of a tip jar. Officers were then told the group had entered the YMCA.

https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/kirkland-police-chief-responds-to-ymca-claims-of-excessive-force/ar-BBWLrbI

[icymist]

1. Here's the statement. Blaming 'both sides' and what to do? Nothing.

"We understand that it is human nature to experience events differently based on our backgrounds and circumstances. We take very seriously the ways in which this event was experienced by KTUB staff and youth. Kirkland is committed to continuing an ongoing dialogue to increase understanding of our differing perspectives and make any necessary changes to create deeper, stronger relationships.
Both parties clearly desire to partner to create an atmosphere where police, teens, KTUB staff and community members feel safe, and where both agencies have clear expectations and communication when similar situations arise. The City is dedicated to making this partnership successful."