Video: Suspect Claims Seattle Cop Choked Him
The attorney of a hit-and-run suspect claims a Seattle Police officer used excessive force on his client during a rough arrest in early October.
The attorney of a hit-and-run suspect claims a Seattle Police officer used excessive force on his client during a rough arrest in early October.
Seattle Police released dash-cam video Tuesday of three officers arresting Leo Etherly that fails to conclusively bolster the attorney's case, reports SeattlePI. Police say the video shows Etherly resisting arrest and intending to spit on Officer Eric Faust.
The video shows officers contacting Etherly. After Etherly refuses to give his name and acts beligerently, the officers attempt to take him into custody at the front of a police cruiser. As Etherly resists, Officer Faust puts his hands on the man's neck and chin.
"What are you choking me for?" Etherly asks.
"I'm not choking you," Faust said, "I'm getting your head away from me."
Etherly then spat in the officer's face. Officer Faust then punches Etherly, takes him to the ground, and punches him again. Etherly can then be heard crying, "Don't touch me, bro."
Etherly's attorney, James Egan, said his client involuntarily spat because the officer caused saliva to hinder his breathing. Egan said it was like his client was waterboarded.
More Patrol
Versaterm Launches Innovation Summit for Public Safety Drone Operations
The two-day DroneSense Innovation Summit by Versaterm will bring together public safety and industry experts to define best practices for scaling drone operations.
Read More →
What Makes a Good LE Boot?
Learn what makes a boot good for police officers as POLICE visits with Kyle Ferdyn, of Garmont Tactical, who explains the features of boots and why each is needed in an LE boot.
Read More →
Folds of Honor Opens Scholarship Application for Children and Spouses of Fallen or Disabled Service Members and First Responders
The application period for the Folds of Honor scholarship program is now open through the end of March. Scholarships support students from early education through postsecondary studies, easing the financial burden for families who have given so much in service to others.
Read More →
Team Wendy Now on GovX: Faster Verification and Discount Access for Eligible Professionals
With GovX verification now integrated directly into the Team Wendy checkout experience, eligible customers can confirm their status in just a few clicks and have the discount applied automatically.
Read More →
5.11 Debuts 2026 Footwear & Apparel at SHOT Show
5.11 showcased new apparel and footwear products during SHOT Show 2026, including new color options for the A/T Boa Lite Mid Boot and the Founder’s Jacket.
Read More →
5.11 Debuts New Load-Bearing Gear at SHOT Show
5.11 launched a variety of new load-bearing gear, ranging from backpacks to chest packs, designed for training, travel, and everyday readiness, this week during SHOT Show 2026.
Read More →
Streamlight Launches the Rechargeable TLR-3X & Other Lights at SHOT Show
Streamlight launched the TLR-3X and TLR-3X USB, two new weapon lights, and an assortment of other new lights during SHOT Show 2026.
Read More →
EOTech & Fast Metal Introduce the EOTech Halen Ballistic Spectacle System
Built on the proven Halen platform, the new EOTech x Fast Metal Halen Ballistic Spectacle System is the only aluminum frame listed on the U.S. Army’s Authorized Protective Eyewear List.
Read More →
2 Florida Officers Shot After Shots-Fired Call
Two officers were shot in Gainesville, Florida, by a man who police say was leaving an area where he had killed a man inside a business. The suspect exited his vehicle in what the chief termed an “ambush-style” attack.
Read More →
Mistaken Identity: Ohio Police Department Harassed After ICE OIS
An Ohio police department has received harassing phone calls and social media messages because it has an officer with the same name as the ICE officer identified in the Minneapolis, Minnesota, officer-involved shooting.
Read More →