A Shelby police officer caught on video repeatedly punching a woman during an arrest has been fired, Chief Brad Fraser confirmed Saturday morning.
Viral Video Sparks Outrage
The video shows 34-year-old Cherrie Moore being struck multiple times before she is handcuffed. The footage quickly went viral, sparking protests and outrage in the Gaston County community.
Investigation Turned Over
The Shelby Police Department has handed the investigation to the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation. The agency has not released the officer’s name.
Chief Fraser said, “While this incident does not reflect the Shelby Police Department, it does reinforce the importance of holding ourselves to the highest standards of conduct. Our commitment to the City of Shelby remains unchanged: to protect our community with courage and serve our community with compassion.”
Community Protests
Protesters marched through the streets Wednesday, carrying signs reading “Protect Our Women” and demanding accountability. Organizer Keelyn Surratt said the protest started with just two people but quickly grew after the video spread.
Moore’s uncle, Michael Moore, said watching the video was devastating. “You can only imagine how I feel to see my niece body‑slammed to the ground at 90 pounds,” he said. “I’m glad he’s on administrative leave, but I want to see him fired and never working in Cleveland County again.”
Official Responses
Chief Fraser previously addressed the incident in a Facebook Live video, calling the officer’s actions “disturbing and inappropriate.” Experts told Channel 9 that punching a suspect who is not fighting back violates standard law-enforcement training…