Abuse of Force: Glendale records show half-truths, omissions in wake of tasing scandal

Written by Marc J. Victor Date: 03-06-2019 Subject: Police Brutality and Militarization

GLENDALE, AZ — The City of Glendale and its police department have released video, information, and statements that contain several half-truths and blatant omissions in the wake of a scandal stemming from the July 2017 arrest of Johnny Wheatcroft, according to new documents and emails obtained by ABC15 through a public records request.

FULL SECTION: Abuse of Force

The case has captured national attention.

Wheatcroft's arrest was captured on police body camera and shows officers repeatedly tasing him during a traffic stop. For the final tase, Officer Matt Schneider pulled down Wheatcroft's shorts and stunned him in the testicles, according to a federal lawsuit.

The documents and emails reveal new details about the FBI's investigation and fill gaps in Glendale's initial statements about Wheatcroft's case.

FBI initiated investigation

The FBI's email to Glendale Police came at 9:37 a.m.

It was Monday, February 11, the first business day after ABC15 exposed disturbing body camera footage showing Glendale officers repeatedly tasing and kicking a handcuffed man.

"I caught the news on Friday and I've been following the story over the weekend," wrote FBI special agent Daniel Johnson, with the Civil Rights / Public Corruption section. "My headquarters, both here and in DC, are asking that I review the matter."

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