In August 2017,
fifteen-year-old Damon Grimes crashed after a Michigan State Trooper tased him while he was driving an ATV through the streets. His crime? Popping a wheelie in a residential neighborhood. Following the crash, Damon was taken to St. John's Hospital. He was pronounced
dead on arrival.
State Trooper Mark Bessner was charged with second-degree murder and involuntary manslaughter for unnecessarily tasing the teen, and he resigned from the Michigan State Police. He now awaits trial.
However, newly released footage from the August incident shows that Bessner wasn't the only cop involved who needs to be held accountable. Various officers at the scene of the murder were caught on tape saying horrifying comments, showing a complete disregard for Damon's life. These are not officers who have an interest in serving and protecting citizens.
"
His pulse is weakening because he was on that fuckin' thing and you chased his ass," said Detroit Police Officer Kimberly Buckner -- as Damon fought for his life.
When asked if they should give the ambulance a police escort, Detroit Police Officer Aubrey Wade said, "
For him? Hell no! They got lights and sirens. We only do that for police."
Imagine if Damon had gotten an escort and gotten to the hospital a little sooner?Various other unidentified officers at the scene were recorded saying just as offensive statements, showing that none of these officers are fit for their jobs.
On top of that, State Trooper Ethan Berger, who was driving the squad car from which Damon was tased, has also not been held accountable. He may not have had the taser in his hands, but he was just as complicit as the driver.
We can't let police off the hook anymore for abusing their power. Please sign this petition urging the Michigan State Police and the Detroit Police Department to identify and fire the officers in this video whose callousness led to the death of a 15-year-old boy.