Arrest Sparks Outrage Among Civil Rights and Disability Advocates
A video showing the violent arrest of Tyron McAlpin, a deaf Black man with cerebral palsy, by Phoenix police has ignited widespread outrage among civil rights and disability activists. McAlpin, who was arrested on August 19, was repeatedly punched and tased by officers, an incident captured by police body cameras. Officer Benjamin Harris, seen in the footage, immediately began assaulting McAlpin upon arrival, while Officer Kyle Sue joined the altercation. McAlpin was struck at least ten times, and the video shows Sue claiming McAlpin bit him. Harris, in his report, alleged that McAlpin had swung at him.
McAlpin now faces three felony charges for allegedly assaulting the officers and resisting arrest. His civil attorney, Jesse Showalter, has called the video “unconscionable,” arguing that McAlpin was simply trying to avoid further harm. Showalter emphasized that McAlpin, who cannot hear commands, was subjected to an unnecessary and relentless assault, with no efforts made by the officers to de-escalate the situation.
Disputed Circumstances Surrounding McAlpin’s Arrest
The Phoenix police had responded to a report at a convenience store about a White man loitering, who alleged that he had been assaulted and had his phone stolen. When police arrived, the man identified McAlpin as the perpetrator, though McAlpin has not been charged in relation to those claims. Showalter insists that McAlpin did nothing wrong, accusing the officers of using excessive force without justification.
Andre Miller, Vice President of the Arizona State Conference NAACP, condemned the officers’ actions, likening the incident to historical cases of racial injustice. In a statement, Miller pointed out that McAlpin, who has communication challenges, was attacked immediately upon the officers’ arrival, without any meaningful interaction. McAlpin, who spent 24 days in jail before posting bond, has pleaded not guilty. It was only after the arrest that the officers learned McAlpin was deaf, yet they remain on duty as the investigation continues.
Calls for Accountability and Investigation into Phoenix Police Conduct
The Arizona Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing expressed disappointment, noting that despite offering training to officers on how to communicate with Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and DeafBlind individuals, these guidelines were not applied in McAlpin’s case. They highlighted the importance of cultural and language awareness for ensuring public safety.
The Phoenix Police Department has declined to provide further comments but stated that it is investigating the actions of the officers involved. Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell has promised a thorough review of the case, acknowledging the heightened public attention. The arrest also comes shortly after a U.S. Department of Justice report condemned the Phoenix Police Department for systemic issues, including excessive force and discrimination. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and other advocacy groups are calling for federal oversight, stressing that the McAlpin case exemplifies ongoing racial bias and mistreatment of people with disabilities within the department.
