A disturbing video posted on social media shows Canton, Ohio, police surrounding a man kneeling on the ground with his hands raised, as one officer, identified as Brandon Momirov, runs up and kicks him in the chest. The man, later identified as Jaemiier McElroy, was taken to the hospital after the incident and remains in a lot of pain. The Canton Police Department stated that the incident occurred while officers were responding to reports of an argument, and suspects appeared to be complying when McElroy was kicked. McElroy and two other men were arrested for obstructing official business and resisting arrest.
McElroy’s attorney, Bobby DiCello, criticized the Canton Police Chief John Gabbard’s statement, calling it “laughable.” DiCello is working on six cases of alleged police violence involving Canton officers, including three deaths and three serious injuries since January 1, 2022.
The cases include the shooting death of James Williams, the shooting death of Zachary Fornash, the death of Frank Tyson in police custody, and the deployment of a K-9 German Shepherd on Kieven Conver. DiCello alleges that Canton police have been treating civilians like enemy combatants, and the frequency of violent police incidents since 2022 is alarming.
Canton police have not responded to requests for comment on these incidents. The attorney is calling attention to the concerning trend of police violence and misconduct in Canton, Ohio, and is advocating for accountability and justice for the victims.
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