Traffic stopExcessive forcePhysical forceAssault or battery to an officer chargesResisting or obstructing arrest chargesHospitalized
Plaintiff:
Ernesto Razo
Incident date:
09/16/2007
Location:
2658 S. Drake Ave.
Allegations:
Jesus Razo and and Evelyn Cortez were at a grocery store when a car sideswiped their vehicle and drove away. Enrique Oliva, who had been with the two, followed the car in his own vehicle, while Jesus Razo and Cortez followed on foot. At 26th Street and Drake Avenue, police stopped the car that had been involved in the hit-and-run. But officers handcuffed Oliva when he showed up to the scene, and shoved Jesus and Evelyn when they arrived and tried to explain what had happened. Some of the officers beat and arrested Jesus. Evelyn called Jesus' family and told them what was happening. But when a relative, Ernesto Razo, showed up and and tried to explain to police that they had made a mistake, officers beat him and arrested him as well. Several hours later, Oliva was released. Jesus was charged with aggravated battery to a police officer. Ernesto was charged with obstructing an officer and battery. Both had to be taken to the hospital for their injuries, which included severe bruises, abrasions and cuts. Charges against both were later dismissed.