LYNN – The Lynn Police Department (LPD) has responded to a viral video of a Lynn police officer seemingly becoming incapacitated while at a call for service.
The video showed a civilian filming multiple Lynn police officers who were responding to a call at night at an unknown location. During the interaction, one officer appeared to struggle to stand and speak. While the video was originally posted on YouTube in June, it started gaining traction through social media on Friday.
On Friday, the LPD released a statement on its social media regarding the incident. The LPD stated that the “suddenly incapacitated” officer in the video appeared to have “experienced a medical-related episode,” and has been placed on administrative leave.
“The Lynn Police Department is aware of a video circulating on social media that depicts one of our officers becoming suddenly incapacitated at a call for service. While we do not typically comment on ongoing investigations, we believe it is important to address public concern,” LPD Chief Christopher Reddy wrote in a press release.
“Based on evidence collected to date, including a review of body-worn camera footage and consultation with medical professionals appears the officer experienced a medical-related episode,” the statement added.
The statement continued, “All potential contributing factors are being thoroughly examined as part of an ongoing investigation. In accordance with the department policy, the officer has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome.”
“We respectfully request the public’s understanding and consideration for the privacy of the officer and his family during this time,” the statement concluded.
The name of the officer in the video has not been released, and the identity of the person who recorded the interaction has not been confirmed. The reasons why the officers were called is also not known, and the body worn camera footage has not been publicly released.
This is an ongoing investigation, according to the LPD.
“On behalf of the officer involved, I want to express our appreciation to all those who have offered words of understanding and support. We have been in contact with the officer to support him as he engages with medical professionals to try to determine the cause of this event. He remains on paid administrative leave pending medical clearance for a return to active duty,” Chief Reddy told The Daily Item.
