In a troubling incident that highlights the dangers faced by marginalized communities when seeking help, a video has surfaced showing a white police officer arresting a Black mother, Lisa Johnson, and her two daughters after Lisa’s seven-year-old son was choked by a white man. This situation underscores the complex dynamics that often unfold when Black individuals reach out to law enforcement for assistance.
On a particular day, Lisa’s son and one of her daughters returned home in distress, claiming that a man from a nearby residence had attempted to choke him. When Lisa confronted the man, he justified his aggressive behavior by stating that her son had thrown a piece of paper on the ground and refused to pick it up. Naturally, Lisa called the police, believing that they would address the situation appropriately. However, the reality is that for many Black individuals, contacting the police can lead to their own victimization, regardless of the circumstances.
Lisa’s 19-year-old daughter, Maya, began recording the incident on Facebook Live, aware that having witnesses could be crucial. The video opens with the officer speaking to the man, while Maya warns her mother to keep calm. Despite the severity of the situation, Lisa’s daughter understands that any display of anger could escalate the situation unfavorably for their family.
As the officer converses with the alleged assailant, Lisa explains, “My children came home saying this man choked my son. I asked him why he did that, and he claimed my son didn’t pick up some paper.” Lisa firmly asserts that no one has the right to choke a child, especially not a seven-year-old. However, the officer responds with an alarming lack of empathy, suggesting that Lisa should instead teach her son not to litter.
Lisa remains composed and insists that the man’s actions were unjustifiable. In a shocking turn, the officer retorts, “Why not?” This dismissive attitude infuriates Lisa, who confronts the officer about his questioning of her parenting in light of the assault on her son. The officer warns her that if she continues to raise her voice, he will arrest her.
Things escalate dramatically when Lisa’s 15-year-old daughter intervenes, attempting to mediate the situation. The officer responds by shoving the girl aside and forcefully taking Lisa to the ground, threatening her with a taser while also aiming it at her daughters, who are understandably panicked. Both Lisa and her terrified daughter are handcuffed and taken to the squad car, while Maya continues to livestream the chaos, expressing her outrage at the officer’s actions.
Ultimately, the officer also arrests Maya and confiscates her phone. According to reports from The Source, Lisa and Maya faced charges of “resisting arrest, interference with an officer, and failure to provide identification.” Meanwhile, the initial assailant remains free, as no report has been filed against him.
The police department has stated that the officer involved is on “restricted duty” while they conduct an internal investigation. During a press conference, a visibly upset Lisa expressed feelings of inadequacy as a parent, stating, “I felt like I failed my son. I couldn’t protect him.” Tragically, in seeking help, she found herself in a more dangerous situation.
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In summary, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers faced by marginalized communities when seeking assistance from law enforcement, highlighting the urgent need for systemic change.