Fort Worth city, police leaders discuss alleged police brutality incident behind closed doors

Fort Worth officials convened a closed-door meeting on Friday to address allegations of police brutality involving a woman who was left severely injured and hospitalized.

The incident occurred early Sunday morning at 1000 Foch St. when Fort Worth Police were investigating a hit-and-run accident. Carolyn Rodriguez approached officers while recording live on her social media pages. She later posted the video online, prompting police to release security camera footage and body-camera footage on Wednesday.

In the videos, Rodriguez is seen questioning officers and following them while recording. An officer eventually instructs her to move across the street or face arrest. When Rodriguez questions this directive, the officer forcefully takes her to the ground and restrains her.

Rodriguez spoke to NBC earlier in the week about her injuries, which included a concussion, dislocated shoulder and elbow, as well as contusions and stitches around her lips and eye.

Fort Worth City Council Member Chris Nettles called for the special executive session to review and discuss the police videos with fellow council members and police leaders. After the meeting, Nettles expressed ongoing concerns despite hearing from the police chief and other officials.

Nettles emphasized concerns about Rodriguez’s arrest and the use of force against her. He highlighted the need for officers to properly secure crime scenes and questioned the justification for the level of force used.

Regarding the officer involved, Nettles recommended serious consequences and emphasized the importance of additional training for police personnel. He also called for discussions among command staff on how to handle situations where individuals exercise their First Amendment right to record and ask questions.

Fort Worth police have assigned their Major Case and Internal Affairs units to investigate the incident to determine if departmental policies and procedures were followed. The Office of the Police Oversight Monitor is also monitoring the investigation to ensure transparency and accountability.

Despite Rodriguez facing multiple charges including Interference with Public Duties and Resisting Arrest, she has been released on bond. The officer involved, who has been with the department for seven years, has been reassigned pending the outcome of the investigation.