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Mayor Bowser to Discuss the Release of MPD Body Camera Footage in Case of Significant Public Interest

Tuesday, December 15, 2015

(Washington, DC) – Today, Mayor Muriel Bowser, Chief of Police Cathy Lanier, Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Roger Mitchell and public safety officials will hold a press conference at 4:00 p.m. at the John A. Wilson Building to discuss the release of FOIA-exempt body worn camera (BWC) footage related to the death of Alonzo Smith.  

On November 1, 2015 at approximately 4:03 am, members of the Seventh District responded to a report of an disturbance in progress at a residential building.  They arrived on scene to find Mr. Smith in the custody of private security guards handcuffed, unconscious and not breathing.  MPD officers summoned medical aid and began lifesaving efforts.  Mr. Smith was transported to an area hospital where he was pronounced dead. Both of the MPD officers who first arrived at the scene were equipped with body worn cameras. The redacted video released today will show the footage of one of these officers. The other video is being redacted and will be released.

As evidence becomes available, MPD turns it over to the US Attorney’s Office which conducts reviews of all death-in-custody cases.  Mayor Bowser is releasing the BWC footage because she has determined that it is of significant public interest.  This is the first publicly released BWC footage since MPD started piloting BWCs in the District.

Individuals with information about this incident should contact the Metropolitan Police Department’s tip line by calling (202) 727-9099 or texting 50411; or contact the US Attorney’s Office at (202) 252-7130.

WHEN:
Tuesday, December 15 at 4 pm

WHO:
Mayor Muriel Bowser
Chief of Police Cathy Lanier
Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Roger Mitchell
 
WHERE:
John A. Wilson Building, Press Briefing Room (G-9)
1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
*Closest Metros: Federal Triangle and Metro Center Metro Stations*