Wednesday, April 2, 2025
HomeNewsDC Council Members Criticize Metro Police's Treatment of Homeless Woman

DC Council Members Criticize Metro Police’s Treatment of Homeless Woman

-

DC Councilman Charles Allen and several other members have expressed their concerns regarding a video, in which Metro Transit Police officers are seen restraining a Black woman reportedly experiencing homelessness.

The video was posted on YouTube by a user, who claims that the officers knocked out one of the woman’s teeth “after she’s threatened by a random man on the metro.”

“Incidents like this one are exactly why WMATA needs a civilian-led review board that can investigate and review any incident involving Metro Transit Police officers and the public,” Allen said in a statement.

The Ward 6 council member emphasized the need for “a neutral body” to review the incident via a rapid and transparent process.

Ward 1 council member Brianne Nadeau and At-Large council member Robert White also weighed in on the video over Twitter.

The incident took place on the Red Line platform at the Gallery Place-Chinatown station at around 7 pm on Saturday, April 3. Deadspin reporter Chuck Modi shared a witness’ account on his Twitter page.

The witness says they noticed “an eccentric, small, seemingly homeless Black woman talking to herself.”
“I lingered to make sure no one harassed her and surely enough a man approached her and began yelling at her. I heard him threaten to stab her, so I intervened and made it clear that nobody was going to be getting stabbed. He then threatened to stab me too,” they wrote.

“While the man and I were arguing, four transit police ran to grab the homeless woman who was doing nothing different than she was before the man accosted her; pacing and talking to herself. I began filming after I saw her on the ground underneath four police officers, with a fifth running to put his weight on her as well,” the post continued.

Officials told the media that the officers got involved after the woman behaved erratically, screamed at passengers, and physically assaulted an officer, adding that she got injured in the mouth and OC spray was deployed during the restraining.

You Might Also Like

Latest Posts

Planning a Wedding? Here’s How to Walk Down the Aisle in DC

If you’re looking to tie the knot in Washington, DC, you may have some unanswered questions. Here's all you need to know so you can enjoy your special day instead of stressing over the paperwork.

Best Nail Salons in Washington DC: Manicure, Nail Art & Pampering

Whether you're looking for a quick manicure or a full set of acrylic nails, Washington DC has a salon that can meet your needs.

Best Theme Parks In and Near Washington DC

Are you craving the thrill of a high-speed coaster? Or perhaps you would prefer to slip and glide down some water slides? Washington DC and its surrounding area have a surprising number of theme parks!