Last week, a man from Ohio was tragically killed while in police custody. The incident occurred at a social club in Canton, and the officers involved are currently under investigation. On Wednesday, the police body camera footage was released showing the events leading up to Tyson’s death.
According to the footage, Frank Tyson, a 53-year-old resident of eastern Canton, was encountered by a police officer from Cant while in a bar near American Veterans (AMVETS). A witness directed the officers to the bar where Tyson was located. Upon arrival, a woman urgently asked the officers to remove him. Despite his pleas for assistance and concerns about his safety, Tyson was handcuffed and pinned down on the ground with a knee in his back. He told the officers he couldn’t breathe, but they ignored his distress and made jokes with passersby.
It wasn’t until they realized that Tyson was in a medical crisis that they attempted to provide assistance. Unfortunately, it was too late; Tyson was pronounced dead at a hospital less than an hour later. An investigation is ongoing to determine if there were any wrongdoing on part of the officers involved and whether charges will be filed against them.
The Mayor of Canton expressed condolences to Tyson’s family and emphasized the importance of transparency in this difficult time. The use of face-down restraints has been a controversial issue in law enforcement for many years as it can lead to positional asphyxiation and endanger the lives of suspects. Proper care and handling are essential in ensuring the safety of individuals in police custody.
This tragic event highlights how important it is for law enforcement agencies to prioritize safety and well-being over making light of situations that require immediate attention and care. It also emphasizes how crucial it is for communities to have transparency when it comes to investigations involving police misconduct or alleged wrongdoing.
In conclusion, Frank Tyson’s death serves as a reminder that even small mistakes can have severe consequences when dealing with individuals who may be experiencing medical crises or other mental health issues while in police custody. Law enforcement agencies must ensure proper training and resources are available for their officers so that they can handle these situations with sensitivity and care rather than forcefulness or insensitivity.
May Frank Tyson’s family find peace during this difficult time as an investigation continues into what led up to his tragic death while in police custody.