A police officer in Fairfield, California, has been reassigned from frontline duties after a video surfaced showing her striking a high school student multiple times while attempting to arrest him. The incident, which occurred on May 20 at Fairfield High School, has sparked outrage and calls for accountability.
Details of the Incident
Bianca Camacho, the officer involved, allegedly struck Maurice Williams, 16, at least five times as she tried to handcuff him. Body-worn camera footage appears to show Camacho pulling Maurice down by his hair and twisting his arm in an attempt to restrain him. When he resisted, she applied what police described as 'additional distraction strikes' to his face. Pinning his head to the floor, she shouted, 'Give me your f***ing hands,' multiple times. Maurice was eventually handcuffed as he pleaded, 'stop, stop, stop.'
Family's Response
The boy's family condemned the actions, stating that Maurice was 'beaten like a dog' and has since experienced dizziness and headaches. They expressed deep concern over the level of force used against a minor.
Police Statement
Chief Dan Marshall acknowledged the incident, stating that the officer used distraction strikes to gain compliance. He noted that screwdrivers were found in the students' backpacks. 'We will carefully evaluate the totality of the investigation’s findings for discipline, additional training, or policy changes,' Marshall said. The department also plans to hold a community meeting with the school district and local leaders.
Previous Allegations
It has emerged that Camacho was allegedly involved in a similar excessive force case a year ago against 18-year-old Myah Hamilton. During a traffic stop, Camacho allegedly dragged Hamilton by her hair, causing a bald spot and scars. Hamilton described the experience as traumatic, saying, 'The same thing that happened to that poor boy was pretty much what happened to me.' Her case is still pending.
The Fairfield Police Department has not commented on the previous incident. The officer remains reassigned as the investigation continues.
