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A local family has filed a complaint against Kalamazoo PD following a use of force incident on July 10th. Bodycam video shows an officer confront two brothers sitting on their front doorstep. Police had recently arrested a third brother, and wanted to talk to the other two. The officer asks 20 year-old Diante Churchwell to take his hands out of his pockets, fearing he may have a weapon. Diante does not cooperate immediately and a physical confrontation then ensues. Back-up is called and eventually both the brothers in the video are arrested for alleged possession of controlled substances.
The family believes the officer may not have been justified in his use of force. An investigation into the incident has since concluded and the officer has been reprimanded as a result. The investigation found the arresting officer used a chocking method which is against their policy.