An Arrest in Uptown Charlotte Becomes Major Topic of Discussion
A 37-second video of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD) officers handcuffing and arresting a 12-year-old Black boy for “reckless driving” on a bicycle has gone viral. Therefore, igniting intense debate online. The clip was originally shared on TikTok by @scooterbless and reposted by @Raindropsmedia1 on X. It shows the child seated on a sidewalk in Uptown Charlotte, his hands cuffed behind his back as bystanders question the officers’ decision.
The arrest occurred near Tryon Street on September 28, in broad daylight. CMPD patrol cars with flashing lights surrounded the boy as officers explained the charge. The charge is “reckless driving on a bicycle.” Under North Carolina law, bicycles are legally considered vehicles. Therefore, making riders subject to the same rules and penalties as motorists.
Despite this, many bystanders and social media users argued the punishment was disproportionate. The child was visibly distressed, repeatedly asking for his mother. Meanwhile, onlookers pressed officers on why a warning wasn’t sufficient. The video ends with officers placing the boy in the back of a squad car and loading his bicycle into the trunk…