The police officer who attacked an arrested man in Molenbeek has spoken out to explain his actions, saying that he attacked the man because the scene triggered memories from a deadly shoot out.
Footage of a violent attack during an arrest in the Brussels municipality of Molenbeek shows the police officer repeatedly kicking a man in the head during an arrest, even though the detainee is already pinned to the ground by another agent.
The officer, who was briefly detained, has since apologised and is currently under investigation.
Related News: Police officer regrets attacking arrested man in Molenbeek
The policeman’s lawyer said his client acted out in a violent manner because the arrest had reminded him of a previous car chase which resulted in a deadly shoot out, according to SudInfo.
The victim of the attack, a 19-year-old man known to the police for several felonies, has reportedly filed a complaint and has spoken out as well to give his account of the events.
The police officer’s lawyer did not give further details about the circumstances around the shoot out, and his client is expected to appear before the Brussels prosecutor’s office on Friday.
The footage of the attack circulated widely on social media, prompting condemnation from local authorities.
The Brussels Times
