Police Criticized for Use of Force Against Restrained Man

The parents of a man who was restrained and hit by a police officer in a video are criticizing the use of force. Shanee and Charles Mason, William Jerome Armstrong's mother and stepfather, said they want to see change moving forward after their son was hit while on the ground.

“The City of Lawrence Police Department is aware of a recent video circulating on social media depicting an interaction between a law enforcement officer and a civilian. We understand the concerns raised by members of the community and want to assure the public that this matter is being taken seriously.

“The incident in question is currently under investigation by the department’s Internal Affairs Division in accordance with agency protocols.  The goal of this investigation is to conduct a thorough and impartial review of the circumstances surrounding the event to determine whether departmental policies and procedures were followed.

“‘Transparency and accountability are fundamental to maintaining the trust of the community we serve,’ said Chief Curtis Bigsbee. ‘We are committed to a fair and objective review of this incident, and appropriate action will be taken based on the findings.’

“As this is an active investigation, we ask for the public’s patience while all relevant evidence, including body-worn camera footage, witness statements, and officer reports, is thoroughly examined.  In the interest of transparency, we will provide updates as they become available and as allowed under the law.

“We encourage anyone with additional information related to this incident to come forward and cooperate with the investigation. The community’s trust is of utmost importance, and we remain dedicated to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.”

The video shows officers striking Armstrong while he is on the ground. His parents said the incident started over a parking violation and escalated when Armstrong refused to move his car until his 16-year-old sister could get out of the store.

“Our city prioritizes the safety and well-being of those who engage with local law enforcement.

“Today, we were informed about an incident involving an officer from the Lawrence Police Department and a member of our community. We take these matters very seriously and are working with Lawrence Police Chief Curtis Bigsbee to conduct a thorough investigation.

“The officer involved has been placed on administrative leave, and the Lawrence Police Internal Affairs Department is currently reviewing all body camera footage and witness testimony.

“We will keep the public updated as more details become available.”

Armstrong's parents said he was initially charged with battery against a public safety official, resisting law enforcement, and intimidation. However, no formal charges have been filed yet.

"Although we're not slaves, I feel like we are enslaved," Shanee said. "We're gonna always be targeted. There were two other people in that firelane. None of them got hit in the mouth."

The Lawrence Police Department's internal affairs unit will investigate the incident.

"It could have been worse. As she (his daughter) said herself, she thought they were pulling out guns and were about to shoot him, but they were tasing him which I guess thank you for not being violent," Charles said.

The Masons' 16-year-old daughter witnessed the incident and was traumatized by it. She had to call off work due to stress and will require counseling to deal with the trauma.

"We are definitely going to be seeing what else can be done to make sure no one else has to feel like kind of intimidation from the Lawrence Police Department," Charles said.