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Webster Police Release Bodycam Video, Defend Force Used in Teen’s Violent Arrest

Officials cite reports of apparent guns as context for the confrontation.

Overview

  • The department published body-worn camera footage after a short social-media clip of Saturday’s arrest drew attention.
  • The videos show officers wrestling, punching and using a stun gun on 17-year-old Japhet Villanueva during a struggle.
  • Villanueva says officers used excessive force and that he suffered broken teeth and bruising.
  • Police say they responded to reports of teens with apparent rifles, later recovered two BB guns near the scene, and report that the suspect reached for an officer’s duty belt.
  • Two youths were detained then released to parents after treatment, an officer sustained a broken hand, and Villanueva faces charges including assault and battery on a police officer.