Phoenix Police Officer Who Threatened to Shoot Family in Viral Video, Fired

A Phoenix police officer who was recorded on video back in May threatening to shoot the parents of a 4-year-old girl who took a doll from a store, has been fired, Phoenix Police Chief Jeri Williams announced at a press conference Tuesday afternoon.

Video recorded on May 27 showed Officer Christopher Meyer pointing a gun at a car occupied by Dravon Ames, his pregnant fiance, Iesha Harper, and their children, including the 4-year-old who'd accidentally taken a doll from a Family Dollar store the family had just been shopping at.

"You're going to get f--king shot," Meyer can be heard shouting at Ames after he didn't immediately open his vehicle's door. The officer can also be heard on the video telling Ames that he was "going to put a cap in your ass."

Meyer was placed on administrative leave following the incident. Williams said at the Tuesday afternoon press conference that the department's Disciplinary Review Board recommended Meyer receive a 240-hour suspension for the incident. However, Williams said she felt that was an inappropriate punishment and did not go far enough.

"I have notified him of my intention to terminate his employment," Williams said. "A 240-hour suspension is just not sufficient to reverse the adverse effects of his actions on our department, and our community." 

A second officer involved in the video received a written reprimand, with Williams describing that unidentified officer's actions as de-escalating the situation.

Meyer, who has been with the department since 1995, has the option to appeal his firing.

"I will say this, it was difficult for both of us. For me to make the decision, and for him to take the call," Williams said.

The family has filed a $10 million lawsuit against the Phoenix Police Department, claiming that officers used excessive force, threatened to shoot them and pointed a gun at their two young daughters. The notice of claim filed last week, said the officers committed battery, unlawful imprisonment, false arrest and infliction of emotional distress in addition to violations of their civil rights.


Sponsored Content

Sponsored Content