Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Seek Release of Officer Bodycam Video in Assault at Bojangles Bus Stop; Charges Dropped Against Christina Pierre

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police have requested a judge’s permission to release bodycam footage of an assault that occurred at a bus stop outside a Bojangles restaurant in southwest Charlotte. The incident took place on November 13 when officers responded to calls regarding a couple allegedly smoking marijuana near the restaurant. The officers attempted to arrest the couple, who had just finished their shifts at Bojangles, but Christina Pierre, 24, became combative.

Video footage of the incident shows an officer striking Pierre multiple times. The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department initially defended the use of force, stating that compliance strikes are part of their response to resistance directives. However, all charges against Pierre and her partner, Anthony Lee, 37, have since been dropped.

Pierre’s civil attorney, Lauren Newton, has indicated that a lawsuit is expected to be filed. Newton stated that Pierre was smoking a THC cigarette, which is legal, and not marijuana as the officers had alleged. Newton claims that Pierre told the police the substance was legal and purchased from a smoke shop, but they refused to believe her.

The officer involved in the incident, identified as Vincent Pastone, has been removed from active patrol. CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings expressed his concern over the incident, stating that he never wants to see an officer involved in such a situation. He emphasized that officers are trained to engage and interact with individuals and must physically engage when faced with resistance or assault.

Chief Jennings also acknowledged the public’s right to view the bodycam footage but noted that North Carolina state law prohibits its release without a court order. He has requested the police attorney to file a petition with the court to allow the video’s public release. However, this process will take time.

The incident has sparked public outrage, with many calling for transparency and accountability. The judge’s decision on whether to release the bodycam footage will be eagerly awaited by the community.