Kinston police are investigating a viral video showing officers using force against suspects

KINSTON, N.C. (WNCT) – Kinston Mayor Don Hardy and the Kinston Police Department posted on Facebook that an investigation is underway after a now-viral social media video appears to show what Hardy used as additional force an arrest.

“I have seen the video footage in question released in connection with an arrest at the Jack Roundtree Apartments Complex,” Hardy said in a Facebook post early Saturday. “I spoke to the police chief and the city manager.

“This incident is currently under review to include all body-worn cameras and cameras in the area. Once all of the footage is collected and the investigation is complete and we have been briefed by the police chief, I and the City Council will review the totality of the circumstances, namely the nature of the call, the proper charges and the level of force used to make the arrest in this particular incident cause. If you have any additional questions or concerns regarding this incident in advance, please contact the Chief of Police with any questions or statements you would like to make. THIS INVESTIGATION IS CURRENTLY UNDER REVIEW!!”

Kinston police also posted on their Facebook page that the investigation is ongoing.

“The Kinston Police Department is aware of a video being shared on social media relating to an arrest in which force was used. The circumstances surrounding the incident are currently under investigation.”

A similar incident involving the Kinston Police Department occurred in April 2021. Two officers were placed on leave pending an investigation into an incident in which the officers were seen in a viral video punching a suspect during an arrest.

Kinston police and an independent Fayetteville council said in a press conference on May 7, 2021 that the force used against a suspect during an arrest, captured in a viral video on April 12, was “lawful” and ” “required”.

For the latest news, weather, sports and streaming videos, visit Queen City News.