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Deaf Black Man Charged After Violent Arrest
In August, Phoenix police officers responded to a call about an alleged assault at a convenience store. Body camera footage shows officers repeatedly punching and Tasering Tyron Scott McAlpin, a 34-year-old deaf Black man.
McAlpin has been charged with felony resisting arrest and aggravated assault. He has pleaded not guilty.
According to police, McAlpin punched the caller, a white man, in the face. Officers detained McAlpin in a nearby parking lot, and a struggle ensued. Police allege that McAlpin bit one officer’s hand and injured another.
The incident is under investigation by the Phoenix Police Department’s internal affairs unit. The department has faced accusations of discrimination and excessive force, including unjustified deadly force.
The city has stated its commitment to police reform but has resisted entering into a consent decree with the U.S. Justice Department.