In North Charleston, S.C., Police Officer Michael T. Slager, 33, was charged with murder on Tuesday after a video surfaced showing him shooting 50 year old Walter L. Scott in the back, causing his death. Scott Family’s lawyer provided the video, which was taken by a bystander, to the New York Times.
Walter L. Scott, the driver of a Mercedes Benz, had been stopped for a broken taillight. The video captures the incident from the point of what appeared to be a scuffle over an object that fell to the ground. It graphically shows Slager firing eight times at Scott while he was fleeing and Scott was about 15 to 20 feet away. Scott dropped to the ground after noticeably being hit. Police Officer Slager looked around and then approached Scott stating, “Put your hands behind your back”. Slager then placed Scott in handcuffs. Moreover, Slager, ran back to where the beginning of the incident occurred, picked up the object that was previously dropped and placed it next to Scotts body. According to police reports, moments after the fatal shooting officer reported on his radio “Shots fired and the subject is down. He took my Taser.”
The South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, the state’s criminal investigative body, has begun an inquiry into the shooting. In addition, the F.B.I. and the Justice Department have also begun investigating. This video propels once again the issue of police force in our country. Earlier today officials announced body cameras have been ordered for the police department. Slager’s behavior in this video depicts what appears to be an abuse of force. According to reports, prior to the release of the video Slager stated he was in fear for his life at the time he shot Scott.
If this video is not enough to prove that police officers should wear cameras then what will? Tune in Sunday to The Femme Spot at 12pm for more on the discussion.