WILDWOOD,NJ- Police here say they are investigating the actions of a police officer caught on video punching a 20 year old woman on the beach during a call to investigate underaged drinking Sunday afternoon.
Witnesses say the woman was asked by police to submit a breathalyzer test and passed. The police then asked the woman for her ID and she refused, escalating the situation.
“This City of Wildwood Police Department has received reports of a video on various social media sources, regarding an incident that occurred on the Wildwood beach yesterday afternoon, with our officers,” the Department said.
https://www.facebook.com/cbsphilly/videos/10157349242869018/
“I am posting something that happened on the Wildwood beach today. I am NOT taking sides. I am NOT making comment. I am just sharing,” said Bob Spalding whose daughter filmed the incident. “The girl was given a breathalyzer and passed. The officer then wanted her name. She refused to give her name. At that point, my daughter started filming.”
“Please note that she cooperated with the breathalyzer and wasn’t under the influence,” Spalding said. “At that point the police had no right or need for her info.”
An Internal Affairs Investigation was immediately initiated into this matter and the involved officers have been reassigned to administrative duty pending the outcome of a full and thorough investigation.
Chief Regalbuto stated that while he finds this video to be alarming, he does not want to rush to any judgement until having the final results of the investigation.
Emily Weinman, W/F, 20 years old of Philadelphia was charged with Aggravated Assault on a Police Officer (2 Counts), Aggravated Assault by Spitting Bodily Fluids at/on a Police Officer, Disorderly Conduct, Resisting Arrest, Obstruction and Minor in Possession of Alcohol.
Anyone that may have been present during this altercation and has supporting video that could assist us with this investigation are strongly encouraged to contact Detective Lieutenant Kenneth Gallagher at 609-522-0222. The Cape May County Prosecutors Office, Professional Standards Unit will also be assisting in this investigation.