From our media partners at WOOD TV:
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — The interim chief of the Grand Rapids Police Department on Thursday defended the actions of officers who arrested a 12-year-old boy, saying they were professional as they handcuffed the boy and put him in the back of a cruiser.
Interim Police Chief David Kiddle said the officers appropriately used the discretion afforded them in the department’s Youth Interaction Policy, handcuffing the boy so he wouldn’t run away and cause a larger problem. He said their actions were meant to calm the situation, and that’s what happened.
“That policy gives that officers guidance and discretion on how to deal with youth. Primarily, treat kids like kids, like they should be treated. I think this policy was followed,” Kiddle said at an afternoon press conference. “And this policy certainly does not say do not intervene in any violent acts or criminal acts being committed by youth. So I think our officers were very calm, respectful, treated this youth as he should have been treated.”
The arrest of 12-year-old Car’reion Baker happened Saturday afternoon near his home in the on Neland Avenue SE north of Franklin Street.
There's more to read - click HERE!