Last week, New Orleans Pelicans center Jaxson Hayes was arrested in Los Angeles. Now, footage of the arrest has been released, and it’s been very controversial.
On Wednesday (Aug. 4), TMZ released footage of the arrest, and in it, three members of the Los Angeles Police Department can be seen restraining and tasing Hayes while he’s on the ground. The video continues until backup arrives and the person recording the clip is reportedly approached by the police.
Yesterday, LAPD chief Michael Moore announced that they are conducting an investigation to see whether or not excessive force was used during the arrest.
This situation began unfolding when police were called to deal with a domestic disturbance last Wednesday. When they arrived on the scene, police say Hayes tried to keep them from entering the home he was at. That’s when the altercation began.
Officers say Hayes initiated the physical encounter. “Body worn video captured Hayes repeatedly attempting to enter the residence despite officers blocking his path and verbal commands for him to remain outside,’’ they said in a statement.
“Officers requested a backup and they attempted to place Hayes’ hands behind his back; however, Hayes broke free of the officers’ grasp and pushed one of the officers into a wall,” continues the statement.
Hayes was hospitalized after the arrest, which resulted in him being charged with battery on a law enforcement officer. He was released from police custody on $25,000 bond.
The Pelicans chose Hayes in in the first round of the 2019 NBA Draft, and so far, he’s averaged just about seven points and four rebounds in a bit less than 17 minutes per game. The Pelicans are aware of the arrest, but it remains unclear how they will deal with this situation as the case progresses.