Suffolk man alleges police brutality after traffic stop caught on camera
The incident was all recorded on a dashboard camera and police bodycam.
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A Medford man is planning to sue the Suffolk County Police Department, several officers and the county after a traffic stop ended with his arrest and injuries. The incident was all recorded on a dashboard camera and police bodycam.
It happened on April 2 on North Ocean Avenue in Medford.
Dash camera video shows Craig Manning driving in a straight lane before moving into a turning lane. Moments later, an unmarked police vehicle pulled him over.
Video reviewed by News 12 shows Manning initially interacting with officers before refusing to provide his license and registration. He repeatedly requested a supervisor and declined officers’ commands to exit the vehicle, though he eventually unlocked the door.
The encounter escalated when officers forcibly removed Manning from the vehicle. Video shows Manning being punched multiple times in the head and later taken to the ground after additional officers arrived.
Manning’s attorney, Frederick Brewington, argues the arrest was unjustified.
“He should never have been charged with any criminal charges,” Brewington said. “The arrest was wrong from the beginning.”
A mug shot taken after the arrest shows Manning with a gash on his forehead. Manning alleges officers used excessive force and violated his civil rights.
Criminal justice professor David Sarni said drivers are legally required to provide their license and registration during a traffic stop and that officers are not required to wait for a supervisor before taking action.
“This was a car stop. You don’t like what they stopped you for? It’s not the time to litigate it,” Sarni said.
Sarni added that whether the force used was reasonable depends on the totality of the circumstances.
“If he was saying he was in fear of his safety, it did not appear, based on his words and his actions, he was scared at all,” Sarni said. “Compliance is key. If you refuse to comply with a car stop, that elevates the officer’s fears or safety issues.”
Suffolk police declined to comment on the officers involved or the incident, citing pending litigation. News 12 also reached out to the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office but did not receive a response.
