Recently a video of a black couple; Dravon Ames and Iesha Harper being held at gunpoint went viral after their 4 year old daughter accidentally walked out of the store with a doll.
The video of the incident which occurred in Phoenix, Arizona on May 27th, garnered scathing commentary online for the extreme approach the officers used towards the family. Police have stated that Ames admitted to stealing underwear from family dollar and that her daughter did take the doll without her knowledge. The manager of the store chose not to press charges.
The police officers originally came to the store to investigate a reported shoplifting. When they arrived they were told by a clerk about a more recent shoplifting; the shoplifting of a doll by Ames’ 4 year old daughter. A series of events led the officers to the parking lot of an apartment complex where things spiraled out of control.
While Ames was arrested after being yelled at, officers continued to point their guns at the car where his fiance Iesha Harper, their 4 year old, and another 1 year old child sat. The video shows Iesha eventually exiting the vehicle while holding her 1 year old. Police continued to point rifles at her and the infant while yelling profanities.
Kate Gallego, mayor of Phoenix has expressed disgust and shock at how the family was treated. Jeri Williams, the police chief of Phoenix, has expressed disgust at the language used towards the family and how the situation was handled. She also stated the officers responsible have been assigned desk duty. The family has not accepted the sentiments and the couple is suing Phoenix for 10 million dollars. Reports say Jay-Z has hired a lawyer for the family.
