Charges Dropped Against Deaf Black Man Beaten by Phoenix Police
Tyron McAlpin, who has cerebral palsy, was wrongfully accused and brutally assaulted by officers, sparking national outrage and calls for police reform.
- Tyron McAlpin, a 34-year-old deaf Black man with cerebral palsy, was beaten by Phoenix police officers after failing to respond to their commands.
- The Maricopa County Attorney dismissed all charges against McAlpin following public outcry and a review of video evidence showing the officers' excessive force.
- The incident occurred after a white man falsely accused McAlpin of assault, leading to his arrest and 24 days in jail despite having no connection to the alleged crime.
- Body camera footage showed officers using a Taser on McAlpin and repeatedly punching him, despite his attempts to communicate his hearing impairment.
- The case highlights ongoing concerns about police interactions with disabled individuals and follows a Department of Justice report criticizing the Phoenix Police Department's use of excessive force and racial discrimination.