A Delaware teen was arrested for jaywalking in June, but charges were dismissed. His mother, Paula Wright, claims the arrest was unfair and that local police are problematic. The incident occurred on June 8, when the teen and his friends were stopped by police in the Dunlieth community. Video footage shows an officer engaging the group, leading to the teen's arrest after repeatedly questioning the officer's actions.
The officer claimed the stop was for a "pedestrian violation" and arrested the teen when he continued to ask questions. The teen was the only one in the group ticketed for jaywalking. He said he was inquisitive because of his interest in law. During the encounter, the officer also asked about the teen's brother, who has a criminal history, which Wright believes led to her son being targeted.
Police officials defended the stop, citing the group's reckless behavior crossing New Castle Avenue and the officer's recognition of the teen's brother's name from a previous encounter. They noted one teen gripping his waistband as if holding a weapon and two wearing hooded sweatshirts on an 80-degree day as reasons for their suspicions.
The police spokesperson, Senior Cpl. Richard Chambers, explained that the officers saw the group running through traffic, nearly causing an accident. He justified the arrest of Wright's son, stating he was the only one seen running recklessly.
Wright argues her son was singled out due to his brother's history. She believes he wouldn't have been the only one cited if not for this. Despite the police's justification, the charge against her son was dropped on June 25. The incident has raised questions about police behavior and treatment of local youth.
Link: Atlanta Black Star
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