Last Sunday, Miami Dolphins wideout Tyreek Hill was stopped by Miami police officers for alleged speeding and reckless driving violations, while on his way to Hard Rock Stadium for the Dolphins’ season opening game.
In what became a controversial incident, Hill ended up face down and handcuffed on the street, before eventually being released. He ended up playing in the game, even excelling with his performance.
The bodycam footage of the officers involved has been released to the public, and I was able to see some of it. I came away with the following thoughts:
True… Hill could have been more cooperative when stopped. It is an unfortunate mistake people still insist on making, regardless of the fact they are in a “no-win” situation. True… Hill keeping his car window up could have possibly restricted the visibility of the officers to the inside of the car, thus creating some tension.
However, did any of this warrant Hill getting forcefully pulled from his car, shoved to the ground, and handcuffed?
Frankly… no. It is clear that from a certain point on, the ego and personality of the police officers took over and superseded any of the behavior that police officers are trained to exhibit under those conditions.
“What if I WASN’T Tyreek Hill?” That was the question Hill asked on the podium after the game. That question, along with the entire incident, should not be allowed to fade from public consciousness. Time has a way to bury all misdeeds under the sand. This one should continue to be brought up and continue under the bright lights.
Thank goodness for police bodycams. These should be mandatory in every police department everywhere. Noncompliance on their use should be met with strict repercussions. Bodycam footage should be made available to the public when reasonably feasible. If there is nothing to hide, there should not be an issue.
In what may be a twisted opinion, I’m glad this happened. Not happy for Tyreek Hill. But glad that this happened to a high profile, black man on the brightest of stages.
Because incidents like this continue to happen across the country. And the answer to Tyreek’s question is a very scary one.