Video shows Lake Charles police officer straddling, punching man in face as department launches investigation

LAKE CHARLES, La. (KPLC) - A video posted to social media of a man being punched by a Lake Charles police officer has sparked an internal affairs investigation.

The incident occurred near Ryan and 15th streets around 6:30 Tuesday morning, according to the witness who took the video.

The context of the apprehension is unclear, but in the nearly nine-minute video, an officer can be seen straddling the man and punching him the face. Multiple officers responded to the scene and eventually carried the man into a unit.

In the video, the man is heard saying he called 911 for help.

7News reached out to police this morning for information and comment about the incident.

The Lake Charles Police Department responded:

“We are aware of a video currently circulating on social media regarding an incident involving our department. An Internal Affairs investigation has been initiated to review the circumstances surrounding the matter.

“We understand the public interest and concerns that have been raised. The department is committed to conducting a thorough, objective, and impartial review of all available information. Accountability, professionalism, and maintaining the public’s trust remain priorities throughout this process.

“As this is an active investigation, we are limited in the details we can provide at this time. We ask the public to allow the investigative process to proceed so that all facts can be carefully reviewed before conclusions are drawn.”

We are waiting to hear what led to the incident, whether the man was arrested, and if officers followed protocol.