A serious incident involving a Tulsa police officer occurred on April 15 when a cruiser rolled over a suspect after the officer failed to engage the parking mechanism. The event unfolded in a QuikTrip parking lot where Kemonte Hampton was initially stopped for jaywalking, a situation heightened by recent community concerns over increased crimes in the area.
Dashcam and bodycam footage, reported by KJRH, captured the moment Officer Caleb Stroble attempted to pursue Hampton after he walked away from the officer. As additional officers arrived to assist, one police cruiser inadvertently rolled backward and struck Hampton, who voiced his surprise and pain at being hit.
Following the incident, Captain Richard Meulenberg confirmed that Hampton was taken to the hospital for treatment of injuries and that he faces charges for improper walking and obstructing an officer. Meulenberg explained that the police often issue citations for jaywalking unless other legal issues arise, stating, “We have probable cause to stop and talk to that person.”
An internal review will take place regarding the officer’s actions, as there are considerations about his failure to properly secure the cruiser. According to Meulenberg, it was believed that the officer had parked his vehicle before assisting, but unfortunately, it was in reverse instead.
While no lawsuit has been filed against the city relating to the incident, it remains under scrutiny. The Tulsa Police Department is set to evaluate the involved officer’s conduct this month.
This incident reflects broader community policing efforts aimed at ensuring safety, although it also raises concerns regarding officer training and situational awareness in high-pressure situations. It’s crucial for departments to learn from such occurrences to prevent future accidents and improve community trust.
Overall, with the continued focus on law enforcement protocols, there is hope for improving safety practices for both police officers and the communities they serve, ensuring incidents like this can be avoided in the future.