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Protester alleges excessive force by HPD during sidewalk protest; council seeks investigation
Summary
A protester told council she was violently taken to the ground and held in handcuffs during a Sept. 22 protest; video evidence was cited, the speaker named an officer by badge number and council members asked HPD and Sergeant Carr to follow up with after‑action reporting.
Elizabeth Sheffield testified that on Sept. 22 she was violently arrested while participating in a peaceful protest. She said officers used excessive force, named Officer Franklin (badge 7949) and others, described bruising and being held in handcuffs during an emergency medical assessment, and said no citation or charge ultimately followed.
Council reaction: Council members expressed concern, apologized for the experience she described, and asked HPD staff and Sergeant Carr to provide after‑action reports and additional information. Council member Pollard said the matter warranted a city review and asked the Vice Mayor Pro Tem to prioritize follow‑up.
Status: Council requested the administration coordinate with HPD to review available video, determine whether policy was followed by the crisis intervention team, and report back to council.
