A video showing the arrest of a Brooklyn man by members of the New York City Police Department is under investigation after officials confirmed the footage depicts a case of mistaken identity.
The incident occurred inside a liquor store located at the corner of Hoyt and Baltic streets in the Boerum Hill neighborhood of Brooklyn on Tuesday, shortly before 4 p.m.
The individual at the center of the video, identified as Timothy L. Brown, spoke publicly following the incident, stating, “I just thank God that I’m alive.”
Video Evidence and Police Explanation
According to police, detectives were attempting to locate an associate of a suspected drug dealer described as wearing green shorts. Officers encountered Brown, who matched that description, and attempted to place him under arrest.
The approximately eight-minute video, confirmed as authentic by the department, shows Brown being physically restrained and struck multiple times by two detectives inside the store.
Police later determined that Brown was not connected to the drug investigation.
Charges and Legal Status
Authorities initially charged Brown with resisting arrest. He was issued a desk appearance ticket and released.
However, Eric Gonzalez, the Brooklyn District Attorney, stated that the resisting arrest charge would be dropped.
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Department Response and Internal Review
Jessica Tisch confirmed that the detectives’ use of force is under review by the department’s Internal Affairs Bureau.
In a public statement, Tisch described the video as “deeply disturbing” and confirmed that the officers involved have been placed on modified duty. This includes the removal of their firearms and shields pending the outcome of the investigation.
Statements from Timothy Brown and Family
Brown stated that he had just finished work and entered the store to purchase wine when officers approached him.
He described being grabbed, pushed against glass, and struck multiple times during the encounter. He also reported being dragged across broken glass inside the store.
Donna Brown, his mother, also spoke publicly, expressing concern over her son’s safety and emotional distress after viewing the footage.
Reactions from Public Officials
Zohran Mamdani issued a statement calling the video “extremely disturbing and unacceptable,” confirming that an investigation is underway.
Lincoln Restler stated that the officers involved should face disciplinary action, including potential termination, while emphasizing the need for accountability.
Witness Account
A witness who recorded the incident, Abelee Moran, described the officers’ actions as “uncalled for” and “unjust,” and alleged that the conduct observed in the video was inappropriate.
Police Union Response
Police Benevolent Association President Patrick Hendry criticized public officials for commenting before all facts are established, stating that conclusions should not be made prematurely.
Scott Munro also emphasized the need for full context, noting that detectives regularly operate in high-risk environments and that compliance during arrests is a key factor in use-of-force encounters.
Current Status
- The use of force is under active investigation by the NYPD Internal Affairs Bureau.
- The detectives involved have been placed on modified duty.
- The resisting arrest charge against Timothy L. Brown is expected to be dropped.
- No drug-related charges were filed against Brown.
FAQ
Why was Timothy Brown initially arrested?
Police stated he matched the description of a suspected drug dealer’s associate, specifically clothing described as green shorts.
Was Timothy Brown involved in the alleged drug activity?
No. Police later determined he was not connected to the investigation.
What charges were filed?
Brown was charged with resisting arrest, but the Brooklyn District Attorney has indicated the charge will be dropped.
What actions have been taken against the officers?
The officers have been placed on modified duty while the incident is reviewed by Internal Affairs.
Is there an ongoing investigation?
Yes. The NYPD Internal Affairs Bureau is conducting an active investigation into the use of force.
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