Seattle Officer Suspended After Video Shows Repeated Head Punches During Arrest
An independent investigation has been launched into the incident captured on traffic and body-worn cameras.
An officer with the Auburn Police Department in the Seattle area has been placed on administrative leave following an incident on Wednesday afternoon where he was seen repeatedly punching a shirtless suspect in the head. The confrontation occurred in the middle of a busy road and was captured on multiple cameras.
The suspect, identified by relatives as Mauro Alberto Felix Valles, was reportedly running through traffic and attempting to enter passing vehicles when officers were called to the scene. According to police, an 18-minute video shows Valles walking across traffic lanes, causing vehicles to slow. Officer Andrew Bryant approached Valles, issuing commands and warning he would use his Taser if the suspect did not comply.
After Valles failed to get on the ground, Officer Bryant deployed his Taser, causing Valles to fall. The situation then escalated as Bryant straddled the suspect and attempted to handcuff him. Video footage shows Bryant repeatedly punching Valles in the head and face for more than 20 seconds while struggling to restrain him. The force of the blows reportedly caused injuries to Bryant's hands.
Additional officers arrived, and it ultimately took four officers to bring Valles under control and handcuff him. Even after being restrained, Valles continued to resist. Firefighters were called to the scene to assist in calming him.
Both Valles and Officer Bryant were taken to local hospitals for evaluation. Valles' family has claimed he sustained a concussion and other injuries, stating he was experiencing a mental health crisis at the time. Police booked Valles on allegations including disorderly conduct, obstruction, and attempted assault. He has since been released on bond, and prosecutors have not yet filed formal charges.
The Auburn Police Department has stated it is taking the incident seriously and is committed to a thorough and impartial investigation. The Renton Police Department is conducting an independent criminal investigation into the officer's conduct, alongside the department's internal review.