A police officer in Annapolis, Maryland, is facing serious assault charges and has been suspended from duty after disturbing bodycam footage captured the alleged beating of a man during an arrest.
The incident, which has sparked outrage and an immediate internal investigation, involved Officer Charles Roessler. The footage appears to show Roessler repeatedly striking the man while he was being restrained by another officer on the ground.
Shocking Footage Prompts Immediate Action
Annapolis Police Chief Edward Jackson stated the department was made aware of the video on Tuesday and took swift action. Officer Roessler was immediately placed on suspended leave pending the outcome of both the criminal and internal investigations.
"The nature of what was observed required immediate action to include the suspension of the officer and a criminal investigation," Chief Jackson said in a press statement. The case has now been forwarded to the Maryland Attorney General's Independent Investigations Division.
Details of the Alleged Assault
The events unfolded on July 22nd when officers responded to a call for a disorderly subject. The bodycam video, which has not been fully released to the public, allegedly shows the moment the interaction turned violent.
According to reports, the individual was on the ground being handcuffed by one officer when Officer Roessler is seen approaching and delivering multiple blows. The man was subsequently treated for his injuries at a local hospital.
Department Vows Accountability
Chief Jackson emphasised the department's commitment to transparency and accountability. "We hold our officers to the highest standards and will not tolerate actions that violate the public’s trust or our policies," he said.
This case adds to ongoing national conversations about police conduct and the critical role of body-worn cameras in ensuring officer accountability. The internal investigation will determine if further administrative actions are warranted.
