The New York Times reports that there will be no charges against a white officer who put a chokehold on an unarmed black man he was arresting for selling loose cigarettes outside a ferry terminal.

The death was videotaped. The hold was outlawed on the police force. The dead man, Eric Garner, could be heard complaining of breathing difficulty.

Advertisement

The reaction on social media is fierce. 

Over-aggressive policing is a problem everywhere, including in Little Rock. Evidence suggests blacks bear a disproportionate share of it. Until there are consequences, it’s not likely to get much better.

Advertisement

For good measure, read about white cops in Texas cleared of beating a black woman (again on video) who’d been arrested for an unpaid traffic ticket.

Some photographic evidence of Little Rock police use of force could be a feature in coming legal action, which is all I can say for the moment.

Advertisement

Be a Part of the Fight

Step up and make a difference by subscribing or donating to the Arkansas Times, the progressive, alternative newspaper in Little Rock that's been fighting for truth for 50 years. Our tough, determined, and feisty journalism has earned us over 63,000 Facebook followers, 58,000 Twitter followers, 35,000 Arkansas blog followers, and 70,000 daily email blasts, all of whom value our commitment to holding the powerful accountable. But we need your help to do even more. By subscribing or donating, you'll not only have access to all of our articles, but you'll also be supporting our efforts to hire more writers and expand our coverage. Join us in the fight for truth by subscribing or donating to the Arkansas Times today.

Previous article Mike Huckabee: Michael Brown shot because he behaved like a ‘thug’ Next article The Wednesday open line and headline roundup