DALLAS, Texas –The Fort Worth Police Department has terminated an officer following allegations of excessive force during an arrest that left a 60-year-old woman injured.
The incident occurred early on a Sunday morning when officers were dealing with a hit-and-run case.
Carolyn Rodriguez, known for her online “cop watch” activities, was on the scene recording police actions for her YouTube channel.
According to reports, Rodriguez continued recording officers despite being instructed multiple times to move across the street.
This led to a confrontation, resulting in her arrest.
Surveillance footage and officer body cam video were released, capturing the event, though the surveillance video lacks audio.
The videos show the officer attempting to arrest Rodriguez, leading to her being thrown to the ground and knocked unconscious.
Rodriguez sustained several injuries in the incident, including a concussion, bruises on her face, and dislocated joints in her elbow and shoulder.
After being taken to a hospital, she was transferred to jail and charged with interference with public duties, resisting arrest, and other offenses. She was later released on bond totaling $4,000.
The arrest has prompted public outcry and discussions among Fort Worth city officials. Chris Nettles, a Fort Worth City Councilman, urged transparency and demanded the immediate release of all bodycam footage. Nettles expressed concerns over what occurred during the arrest and called for a special session to discuss the incident in detail.
Rodriguez, who describes her actions as part of a “First Amendment audit,” claims she was unaware of the police operation related to a hit-and-run at the time of her arrest. She maintains that she was merely questioning the officers’ actions while performing her usual recording duties.
The Fort Worth Police Department confirmed that the officer involved in the incident, whose name has not been released, has been administratively reassigned pending the outcome of an internal investigation.
The department’s Major Case and Internal Affairs Units are overseeing the inquiry to determine if the officer’s actions complied with proper procedures and policies. The Office of the Police Monitor is also involved to ensure transparency and accountability throughout the investigation.
Rodriguez has stated her intention to pursue legal action against the officer and the department. She has expressed a need for answers regarding the treatment she received during the arrest.