A disturbing use-of-force incident involving Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s deputies in Louisiana has sparked outrage after graphic video footage surfaced showing a suspect being repeatedly punched and stomped on the head during an arrest.
The incident occurred around 6:30 PM on Thursday in Harvey, Louisiana, a suburb of New Orleans, and has since gained national attention. The Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office (JPSO) has confirmed that an internal investigation into the arrest is currently underway.
Shocking Footage Shows Brutal Beatdown
In a video obtained by TMZ, two deputies are seen attempting to restrain Le Chau, the man later identified as the suspect. Chau is lying on his side on a public street while one deputy kneels down in an attempt to cuff him. Another officer, standing above him, is then seen delivering three forceful punches to Chau’s head — followed by a vicious stomp to his skull.
With each punch, Chau’s head violently jerks, and the final blows cause it to bounce off the pavement in a chilling sequence. Eyewitnesses told TMZ that Chau’s face was bloodied, though the full extent of his injuries remains unclear.
Why Police Were Called
According to a Friday statement from the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, deputies were responding to multiple 911 calls reporting a man walking into traffic and making obscene gestures at drivers along the street.
The first responding officer, a female deputy, reportedly approached Chau to detain him. Authorities claim that Chau became combative, engaging the deputy in a physical struggle that escalated when a second deputy arrived to assist. Officials allege Chau resisted arrest, prompting what they described as “strikes to his head” to subdue him.
Suspect Faces Multiple Charges
After he was handcuffed, Chau was transported to a local hospital for medical treatment. Later, he was booked on several charges including:
- Resisting an officer with force or violence
- Battery on a police officer
- Disturbing the peace by intoxication
Officials say that during the booking process, Chau initiated another physical altercation, leading to additional charges.
The Sheriff’s Office also noted that Chau has a criminal history, with over 20 prior arrests since 2014, many of which involve resisting arrest.
Public Outcry and Calls for Accountability
The video has ignited public backlash across social media, with users condemning what they describe as excessive force and police brutality. Activists and civil rights groups are demanding transparency and disciplinary action, particularly after witnessing what appears to be an unnecessary escalation involving a suspect already pinned to the ground.
“The video speaks for itself,” one online commenter wrote. “There’s no excuse for punching and stomping a man’s head when he’s down.”
Sheriff’s Office Confirms Internal Investigation
In response to the viral video, a JPSO spokesperson confirmed that the incident is being formally investigated, but did not specify whether the deputies involved have been suspended or placed on administrative leave.
“The use-of-force incident is under review,” the statement reads, “and all appropriate policies and procedures will be followed.”
At this time, no disciplinary action has been publicly announced, and the names of the officers involved have not been released.
Eyewitnesses Say Police Presence Escalated
According to witnesses at the scene, seven to eight police vehicles flooded the area during the arrest. As additional officers arrived, Chau was finally subdued, cuffed, and placed inside a patrol car before being transported away.
Some witnesses told TMZ that the police presence seemed disproportionate to the situation, especially after the suspect appeared to be restrained on the ground when the blows were delivered.
Legal Ramifications Could Follow
Legal experts suggest that if the video is confirmed to show unjustified force, the deputies involved could face disciplinary action, termination, or even criminal charges depending on the outcome of the investigation. Chau himself may also seek legal recourse for the physical injuries sustained during the arrest.
This incident adds to ongoing national conversations about police accountability and the need for oversight when force is used during arrests — especially when captured on camera. As the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office proceeds with its internal investigation, the public awaits answers and demands justice for what appears to be a deeply troubling encounter.
