The Canton Police Department has launched an internal review after a video surfaced on social media showing an officer kicking a man during an arrest in the 1800 block of Morris Ave NE, Police Chief John Gabbard said in a press release Monday afternoon. The incident occurred on August 24 at approximately 8:30 p.m., following a report of an argument involving 10 to 15 people in the area.
Several officers, including detectives from the Coordinated Response Team, responded to the scene due to intelligence linking the nearby Mahoning Manor complex to gun violence. As officers arrived, multiple individuals fled, prompting two foot pursuits. One suspect, who was visibly armed, eluded capture after the pursuing officer decided not to continue the chase, according to the press release.
Upon returning to the original location, officers confronted additional suspects. The individuals appeared to be complying with orders to get on the ground when Officer Brandon Momirov kicked Jaemiier McElroy, 21, in the chest. All suspects were subsequently taken into custody. Police recovered two Glock 9mm pistols at the scene, along with a backpack containing a large quantity of marijuana, currency, and scales from a nearby vehicle.
Those arrested in the incident include McElroy, 21, Terrence Backie, 32, and Jeffery Richardson, 30.
Chief Jack Gabbard addressed the incident, stating, “Our officers frequently face stressful, dangerous situations and confrontations with armed suspects. Their dedication to the community has resulted in exceptional reductions in violence, especially gun violence, over the past two years. Crime reduction and public safety are only part of our mission, which cannot be fully realized without considering the effect we have on our community. In short, how we do our job is as important as the results of our efforts. Officers using force outside the parameters of our training, policy, and principles will be held accountable.”
The actions of Officer Momirov are under investigation as the department evaluates whether the use of force was justified according to department guidelines.
