Police Officer on Leave After Video Shows Him Kneeling on 15-Year-Old Boy’s Head in Seaside, California

SEASIDE, Calif. – An incident involving a police officer in Central California has sparked outrage after a video surfaced on social media showing the officer kneeling on a 15-year-old boy’s head.

Seaside Police Chief Nick Borge has announced that an independent investigation is underway to look into the officer’s alleged use of excessive force during the detainment of the teenager.

The video, which was captured on Tuesday, depicts the officer restraining the boy on a sidewalk, with his knee pressed against the teenager’s head while holding his arms behind his back.

In a written statement, Chief Borge stated, “Based on what I observed, immediate action was taken. The officer was placed on administrative leave and we have launched an independent investigation into his actions. I want to ensure our community that we will address this situation assertively, swiftly, and with full integrity. Seaside PD believes in our motto, TRUST, and those who engage in any form of misconduct will be held accountable. We value your trust. I value your trust and we will do the right thing.”

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The distressing video captures the teenager pleading, “Relax, relax. What are you doing? I didn’t even do anything. Ah, my head,” as the officer continues to handcuff him, maintaining pressure on his head with his knee.

According to KSBW’s Felix Cortez, the officer involved has been identified as John Crivello. The news outlet reported that the incident occurred when the teenager, accompanied by his cousin and two friends, was walking home and encountered officer Crivello. The officer had responded to reports of an armed individual leaving a nearby park, leading him to stop and question the group.

No firearm was found during the encounter, yet the teenager and his cousin were cited for resisting arrest and obstructing a police officer, according to KSBW.

It is worth noting that the police maneuver demonstrated by the officer in the video may raise controversy, as certain face-down holds have been prohibited for California police due to their association with unintended deaths.