Friday, November 22, 2024
HomeNewsPolice Union Refuses to Name Officer Who Attacked Australian TV Crew

Police Union Refuses to Name Officer Who Attacked Australian TV Crew

-

A police union representing the US Park Police denied publicly naming the officer who was involved in an assault on two Australian TV journalists covering the DC protests on the night of June 1.

In a statement, Kenneth Spencer, chairman of The Fraternal Order of Police United States Park Police Labor Committee, said the officer would not be identified due to privacy rights and an ongoing investigation into the incident by the US Park Police.

Spencer, who was on-duty in Lafayette park on Monday night as well, said that the Australian journalists that were targeted were not “readily identifiable” as members of the media amid the demonstrations.

The foreign journalists were in a “very dangerous area in the middle of violent protesters,” according to the labor union’s statement.

“We wish the Australian reporting team well and simply wish that the circumstances of their visit had been better,” Spencer added.

Along with the officer represented by the union, another US Park Police officer also took part in the attack. Both were subsequently placed on administrative duty during the investigation.

Australian 7NEWS’ US Correspondent Amelia Brace and cameraman Tim Myers were covering the protests in Washington, DC’s Lafayette park against police brutality that erupted in response to the police killing of George Floyd on Monday, June 1.

In an incident caught on camera during a demonstration outside the White House, one US Park Police officer was seen hitting cameraman Myers with a riot shield, punching him in the face and grabbing his camera. Another officer was swinging a baton at Brace’s back. The attack was aired live on Australian television. 

“It was an absolutely terrifying experience but we came through it together,” Brace said, speaking to the Sydney Morning Herald on Tuesday. She added that she had bruising across her shoulders and welts from the rubber bullets.

 

DC Council to Introduce Bill for More Extensive Police Accountability

You Might Also Like

Latest Posts

Best Travel Agencies in Washington DC: Let Experts Plan Your Trip

Whether you're planning a globe-trotting adventure, an eco-conscious retreat, or a luxurious escapade, these Washington, DC agencies have the knowledge and experience to make your travel dreams come true.

Best Places to Donate Clothes in Washington DC

You have a bunch of clothes you haven't worn in ages and no idea what to do with them? Here are the best places to donate clothes in Washington DC.

Best Seafood Markets in Washington DC: Create Your Home-Made Feast

Seafood enthusiasts can find great joy in cooking their own seafood dishes, as well. These are the best seafood markets in Washington DC.