ALLENTOWN, Pa. - Police in Allentown say the use of force during an arrest earlier this month was appropriate.
The Allentown Police Department said it was made aware Tuesday that a video depicting an officer utilizing force at an arrest was being circulated on social media.
"The Allentown Police Department is committed to providing professional police services and recognizes the appropriate application of force as a priority," city police said.
Police made the arrest on Sept. 20 around 8:30 a.m. in the 1500 block of Gordon Street, according to a news release from city police. Officers were sent to the area after a theft was reported.
An officer saw the suspect, who was still actively stealing items from the store, city police said.
Police say the man had a screwdriver.
The officer told the man, Rey Jomar Torres Garcia, that he was under arrest, according to city police. Police say he then actively resisted the officer by refusing to give his hands and comply with lawful verbal direction from the officer.
The officer took Garcia to the ground, where he continued to be noncompliant with verbal commands and continued to resist arrest, city police said.
Police say Garcia was placed into custody without injury to the suspect or officer.
At no point does the officer kneel on Garcia's neck or head area, according to city police. Police say the officer placed Garcia into the prone handcuffing position and was able to bring him into compliance.
The application of force in the incident has been reviewed and is appropriate, city police said.
After an investigation, authorities charged Garcia, 21, with resisting arrest, criminal trespass, drug paraphernalia, and retail theft.
