On 9/9/23, LAPD officer Jamar Butler harassed a group of men who were conversing in a parking lot outside a gym, incorrectly accusing them of “loitering.” He violated LAPD policy and the Constitution by using his flashlight to obstruct one man’s view of his nameplate, effectively hindering the ability to document the encounter, which constitutes a First Amendment violation.
Additionally, Butler referred to one individual as “little man,” displaying further disrespect. It’s important to note that loitering implies a lack of lawful purpose, but the men were simply on their way to the gym, which is a legitimate reason to be present. The officers had no grounds to interfere with them.
LAPD officer Jamar Butler harassing gymgoer
LAPD Chief Moore was sent a video of the interaction in which he ordered a public complaint investigation and requested a review of the underlying circumstances. Chief Moore also asked for a review of the officer’s prior complaint history.
On December 11, 2003, I received a complaint disposition of “sustained” for the officer inappropriately shining a flashlight at an unidentified citizen. As for the harrassment complaint, the LAPD gave a disposition finding of “officer could have done differently”.
Although all officer discipline is kept private under California Penal Code § 837.5, we are able to match the disposition findings with an entry on the monthly displinary penalty report.
Jamar Butler’s disciplinary action: Official Reprimand.
