Miami “Misdirected power”: Sharp criticism after police action against NFL star

The Miami Dolphins have sharply criticized the behavior of police officers during a brief arrest of NFL professional Tyreek Hill before the season opener. In a statement, they said: “It is both insane and heartbreaking to see the very people we trust to protect our community use such unnecessary violence.” Hill's teammates Calais Campbell and Jonnu Smith were also involved in the incident.

In a video from a bodycam of a police officer who was present at the operation, Hill can be seen standing on the side of the road in a supercar. A police officer comes to his car, Hill hands the officer something through the lowered window and then raises it again. The police officer then orders him to lower the window again, but Hill does not do so. Another police officer then vehemently opens the driver's door, Hill is pulled out of the car and pushed to the ground. An officer presses his knee into Hill's back. The 30-year-old is handcuffed.

“We are proud to have a strong and positive relationship with the Miami-Dade Police Department and other law enforcement agencies, and recognize that the vast majority of officers serve the community with the utmost character and a desire to protect all citizens.” “However, as is clearly seen in the videos released tonight, some officers confuse their responsibility and commitment to duty with misguided power,” the Dolphins wrote.

The NFL club is calling for swift and forceful action against the officials “who have exhibited such despicable behavior” and assured the players that it will stand by them “as they work to use their platform and this situation should have a positive impact on our community.” (dpa)