The family of Jabari Peoples, an 18-year-old who was fatally shot by a Homewood police officer, is expressing frustration over delays in accessing video footage of the incident. Attorney Leroy Maxwell, representing the family, stated that the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) has denied their request to view the footage despite paperwork being submitted. Homewood police previously indicated that the incident was recorded and that arrangements would be made for the family to see the video, but no timeline has been given.
Maxwell emphasized the family’s disappointment as they approach three days since the shooting without clarity, which he believes is deepening their mistrust. The attorney highlighted that Peoples was a well-respected high school graduate with aspirations of working in law enforcement, noting, “He was a student. He was beloved. He was kind. He was respectful.”
On the night of the incident, Peoples was in a parked vehicle at Homewood Soccer Park when an officer, responding to recent criminal activity in the area, approached them after detecting the smell of marijuana. After ordering the occupants out, a struggle ensued, and during the altercation, Peoples reportedly attempted to retrieve a handgun from the vehicle, prompting the officer to fire in self-defense.
The police stated that backup arrived quickly to administer first aid, but unfortunately, Peoples succumbed to his injuries at the hospital. The family is demanding transparency, including public release of the police report and all footage from the incident.
Maxwell asserted the urgency of releasing the video, stating, “I think we have to look at it from all angles. We’ve got to see what led up to it, what happened.” He questioned the necessity of the police approach, emphasizing that being parked legally in a public space should not lead to such an encounter.
This tragic incident underscores the need for accountability and clarity in police encounters, particularly in sensitive situations like this. The family remains committed to seeking justice for Jabari, hopeful that the release of the footage will shed light on the events that unfolded the night of his death.