UPDATED 4:16pm
According to a news release, Springfield Police say the suspect seen in the video, identified as Promyss Davis, 19. She exited a vehicle as police conducted a traffic stop, and attempted to flee the scene. The vehicle, police claim, was registered to someone with active warrants.
Police accuse Davis of “actively resisting arrest,” and was known to Officer Walter. At one point, police allege, as Davis was resisting, she caused Walter’s body camera to deactivate.
“Ms. Davis is currently awaiting trial on several cases including but not limited to aggravated unlawful use of a weapon, aggravated battery to a peace officer and resisting a peace officer,” said the release. Davis allegedly also tried to give a false name to officers.
The body camera video from both Walter and another officer is expected to be posted to the Springfield Police Transparency Website later Monday.
Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – Community groups and others are looking for answers after a video making the rounds on social media seems to show a Springfield Police officer punching a Black female, and obstructing an airway.
Video and stills of it have been on the internet since the weekend, from an incident believed to have happened last Friday, March 27, though it’s not clear where.
“While we continue to gather verified information about the circumstances surrounding this incident, what is visible in the video raises serious questions about officer conduct, proportionality of force, and adherence to departmental policy and training standards,” said, in part, a statement from the Springfield NAACP. “The NAACP stands firmly on the principle that no individual should be subjected to unnecessary violence, disrespect, or dehumanization at the hands of law enforcement. Our community deserves policing that reflects professionalism, restraint, and respect for human dignity.”
WTAX News and CapitolCityNow.com have asked for comment from Springfield Police, and have filed a Freedom of Information Act request asking for videos and reports. Neither of the requests have been answered to. The FOIA gives the city at least five days to respond and fulfill the request, or ask for more time.
Alderwoman Lakeshia Purchase said on social media “There is a process that must be followed, and we are committed to seeing that process through with transparency and urgency.”
