Florida sheriff stands behind treatment of suspected shoplifter
WESLEY CHAPEL, NC (WTVD) -- Video from Pasco County, Florida shows a loss prevention officer and sheriff's deputy approach a suspected shoplifter outside a department store.
The entire incident was recorded by a camera worn by the deputy.
The deputy asks the woman to go back into the store, but when she refuses, he orders her to put her hands behind her back.
Instead, she pulls away and begs the officer not to take her into custody. The deputy then grabs her hand and attempts to place her in handcuffs, but as she struggles her head slams into a wall and she begins to bleed.
Many have criticized the deputy for the way he handled the arrest. The sheriff stands behind the deputy's action. Sheriff Chris Nocco said he reviewed the body cam footage, which is more than 25 minutes. He said his deputy was justified in how he handled the situation. According to authorities, the woman tried to leave the store without paying for shoes.
