A disturbing new video shows an NYPD officer beating an alleged farebeater over the head with a nightstick — a move that’s “against department policy,” reports PIX11. The incident, which took place around 8 PM at the Myrtle Avenue (Broadway) J/M/Z station.
The video begins with the officer pinning 20-year-old Donovan Lawson against a wall, hitting him repeatedly with a baton. Lawson’s head is bleeding. The suspect then staggers, with the officer attempting to handcuff him at the subway turnstile.
According to PIX11, “The man who captured the encounter on camera said it began with the officer using pepper spray against Lawson. That act is not shown in the video but NYPD confirmed that the officer did use the spray against the suspect.”
The video was uploaded to YouTube under the title “This police abuse needs to stop!!! Brooklyn New York Myrtle’s Broadway train on the J and M line” by legendary graffiti writer SKUF YKK.
Lawson was charged with fare beating, resisting arrest, and disorderly conduct, and obstructing government administration. He was taken to Woodhull Hospital.
The officer in the video, who suffered injuries to his hand and arm, was taken to Wyckoff Heights Medical Center for treatment.
The incident is being investigated by the NYPD’s Internal Affairs bureau.
(Photo: Skuf YKK)
