Brockton student arrest investigation

BROCKTON, Mass. — A student charged with assault and battery after a fight in school is at the center of a controversial video that turned up on social media. Brockton police are now investigating whether the school police officer is seen on the video arresting the student who used too much force.

On the video that turned up on social media, you see the Brockton School Police Officer with his knee on the student and then hear some of the students reacting.  “Why are you on his neck?” a student yelled.

The Brockton School Superintendent Michael Thomas told parents, “the video depicts the moment the student is being handcuffed and the way the student is being restrained during the arrest has been causing for great concern.” “The video was painful to watch- particularly given its historical context,” said Thomas.

Parents like Michelle Lavoule told us they are outraged. “To tell you the honest truth it just brought back to seeing the video of George Floyd,” said Lavoule. “I feel sad, I feel angry. They need to know to learn and know how to treat a kid. In that situation,” another parent said.

Brockton Police are investigating to see if the officer violated any policy or procedures. We’re told the School Police Officer went through a police academy but he is not a traditional police officer because he did not take the civil service test. Parents and students are questioning if more training is needed for these positions. “If it bothered me, I’m sure it bothered them,” said Lavoule.

The school police officer was put on leave while police investigate the arrest. The student again was charged with assault and battery involving a fight at school and released to his parents.

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