Arizona Prosecutors Drop Charges Against Disabled Black Man After Violent Arrest

Charges Dismissed After Outcry Over Bodycam Footage

Prosecutors in Arizona have dropped all charges against Tyron McAlpin, a deaf Black man with cerebral palsy, who was violently arrested earlier this year. McAlpin, 34, faced charges of aggravated assault and resisting arrest after police used a Taser on him and struck him during an arrest in August. However, following the release of bodycam footage showing the incident, Maricopa County District Attorney Rachel Mitchell announced on Thursday that all charges were dismissed.

Violent Arrest Sparks Public Outrage

The bodycam footage, released this week, triggered widespread outrage as it showed officers using excessive force against McAlpin, who is disabled. The footage shows officers deploying a Taser and punching him despite his apparent inability to communicate due to his disabilities. McAlpin’s lawyer has maintained his client’s innocence and worked to have the charges dismissed, calling the arrest unjust.

Internal Investigation Launched

The Phoenix Police Department has initiated an internal investigation into the actions of officers Benjamin Harris and Kyle Sue, who were involved in McAlpin’s arrest. Both officers remained on active duty earlier this week, and the police department has not commented on their current status. The Phoenix Police Department has faced previous scrutiny from the U.S. Justice Department for allegedly using excessive force and discriminating against minorities.

Incident at Convenience Store

The arrest occurred after police were called to a convenience store, where a man accused McAlpin of assault while allegedly attempting to stop a theft. Despite the allegations, McAlpin was not charged in connection with the theft or assault. He spent 24 days in jail before posting bond, according to CBS News.

Ongoing Scrutiny of Police Conduct

This case has intensified the focus on the Phoenix Police Department, which has been criticized for its treatment of minority communities. McAlpin’s legal team continues to call for accountability and is pushing for further action against the officers involved in the arrest.