Use of Force Investigation in Southeast Division NR24216bb

July 31, 2024   NR24216bb

UPDATE

Force Investigation Division has since taken over this investigation at the Direction of the Chief of Police.

Chief Choi stated, “I was concerned by the initial video circulating on social media and immediately directed a full investigation into all facts and circumstances of this incident. Above all, I want the people of Los Angeles to be assured that there will be appropriate accountability.”

Below is a link to the body worn video of the officers involved.

https://youtu.be/2nykjYgZEq8

**The following information is based on a preliminary and ongoing investigation, which continues to evolve as investigators interview witnesses, review physical and electronic records, and analyze forensic evidence. The Department’s understanding of the facts and circumstances may change as additional evidence is collected and analyzed**

Los Angeles: The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) is investigating a Use of Force (UOF) that occurred during a traffic stop in Southeast Division.

On July 28, 2024, at around 5:20 p.m., Southeast patrol officers conducted a traffic stop on a double-parked vehicle facing against traffic at the intersection of 113th Street and Graham Avenue. Initially believed to be unoccupied, the vehicle was later discovered to be occupied upon closer inspection through its heavily tinted windows.

The officers ordered the occupant, identified as 28-year-old Alexander Gofferney Mitchell, to exit the vehicle and attempted to handcuff him. As a crowd began to gather around the scene, additional backup was requested. During the handcuffing process, Mitchell resisted by refusing to place his hands behind his back and grasping his front waistband/pocket area with his right hand, preventing the officers from securing him. An officer then struck Mitchell on the right side of his face, enabling the officers to complete the handcuffing.

Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics arrived and transported Mitchell to a nearby hospital for medical clearance prior to booking. He was later arrested and booked at an LAPD jail facility for violating Penal Code 148 (Obstructing/Resisting Arrest), with Booking No. 6855267. Mitchell was released with a misdemeanor citation and is scheduled to appear in court.

A Southeast Division supervisor responded to the scene to conduct a Use of Force investigation and initiated a personnel complaint.