Introduction to the Incident
A Miami Police officer has been relieved of duty following an assault involving bicyclists and a driver earlier this week, officials said. The incident happened at around 6:30 p.m. Sunday in the area of Biscayne Boulevard and 14th Street, outside Knight Concert Hall, according to the Miami Police Department.
Details of the Incident
In a video exclusively obtained by NBC6, a man parks in front of a Miami Police officer’s car, gets out, and appears to say something to another person on a bike. The man then walks to the driver’s side of the officer’s car and appears to have a conversation with the officer inside. Seconds later, more people on bikes show up and the man walks back to his car. The tree is blocking the camera’s view, but that’s when the encounter between the man and people on the bikes appears to turn violent. The police officer does not get out of the car.
In the video, someone jumps on the man’s car and smashes the windshield. Then, several people kick the man while he’s on the ground. Then someone throws a bike on top of him.
Police Response
During this, the officer is still in their car. But it seems other officers run over to break up the attack, after police say they were investigating a call of a bicyclist versus motorist dispute involving an assault. Seconds later, the officer who was sitting in their car gets out and walks over to the fight.
Investigation and Aftermath
Police said the assault is under investigation. Miami Police Chief Manuel Morales said in a statement Thursday that an officer was relieved of duty, pending the outcome of an internal investigation. "The members of the Miami Police Department understand and take great pride in upholding their responsibility to protect and serve our community. We must act for the betterment of our community," Morales said in part. NBC6 reached out to the police union for comment.
Conclusion
The incident highlights the importance of swift and appropriate action by law enforcement in violent situations. The decision to relieve the officer of duty pending an investigation shows the commitment of the Miami Police Department to accountability and transparency. As the investigation unfolds, it will be crucial to understand the full context of the events and the actions of all parties involved.
FAQs
- Q: Where did the incident occur?
- A: The incident happened at around 6:30 p.m. Sunday in the area of Biscayne Boulevard and 14th Street, outside Knight Concert Hall.
- Q: What is the current status of the police officer involved?
- A: The officer has been relieved of duty pending the outcome of an internal investigation.
- Q: Is the incident under investigation?
- A: Yes, the assault is under investigation by the Miami Police Department.
- Q: What actions are being taken by the Miami Police Department?
- A: The department is conducting an internal investigation, and the officer involved has been relieved of duty. The department emphasizes its commitment to protecting and serving the community.
