Footage of an indigenous teenager having his legs kicked out from beneath him as he was arrested in Sydney is "absolutely" concerning, but a senior NSW police officer says the incident shouldn't been turned into "something it's not".
Police are investigating after the 16-year-old was taken to hospital with minor injuries following his arrest in a Surry Hills park on Monday.
The teenager had allegedly told a male police officer "I'll crack you in the f**king jaw, bro" before he was thrown to the ground. He was subsequently released without charge.
The arrest was captured on a mobile phone, with the footage later posted on social media.
After being threatened, the officer can be seen telling the teenager to turn around and put his hands behind his back. He then kicks the young man's legs out from beneath him and handcuffs him face down on the ground.
A bystander can be heard yelling "You just slammed him on his face. He's in pain."
NSW Police on Tuesday said the professional standards command was investigating and the constable involved had been placed on restricted duties.
Redfern Legal Centre solicitor Samantha Lee said the footage was "deeply distressing".
The centre has referred the matter to the independent police watchdog.
Read the full story here (AAP, 2 June 2020)
