Video shows LAPD officer striking man repeatedly in Boyle Heights, prompting investigation

LOS ANGELES (KTLA) -- The Los Angeles Police Department announced an investigation Monday after footage surfaced online of a uniformed officer repeatedly striking a man during an encounter in Boyle Heights.

The incident happened on April 27 in the 2400 block of Houston Street, according to the LAPD.

The video apparently recorded by a bystander from across the street shows two LAPD officers, one male and one female, detaining a man on a sidewalk by a church.

An initial verbal exchange between the man and the male officer is unclear, but the officer begins striking the civilian at least nine times in the head, from behind, while screaming expletives. The man crouched down as he asked the officer, “What is wrong with you?”

According to LAPD, the two officers responded to the scene after receiving a call about a trespasser. They identified the man as the perpetrator and asked him to leave the property, police said.

The officer sustained minor injuries to his hand, while the suspect suffered abrasions to his head and face, LAPD said. The man refused medical care, according to police.

LAPD did not release the identity of the officer and civilian involved.