Bucks County District Attorney To Investigate Quakertown Incident
by Alex Lloyd Gross
Bucks County District Attorney Joe Khan has ordered an independent investigation into the incident involving the Quakertown students who were arrested Friday during a protest against ICE. The students, about 35 of them took to the streets to protest. Police sasid they blocked traffic and did not listen to officers.
Scott McElree Quakertown Police Chief has come under fire for going hands on with students. He4 was seen on video wrestling at least one male to the ground. His arm is seen around the males neck. Supporters of the police say it’s an acceptable use of force and the students deserved what they got when they refused to listen.
Opponents say the use of force was excessive and they want McElree fired. They are also demanding the immediate release of the juveniles who remain in detention since their arrest. The students could be released today after their first court hearing.
When an adult is arrested they usually see a magistrate for bail within 48 hours. Juveniles do not see a judge on Saturday or Sunday. Monday a blizzard closed the court system. They have been held at the juvenile detention center in Edison since then.
At a community meeting, outraged members of the community called for the suspension or termination of the police chief, who is also a borough administrator. The district attorney’s office is asking anyone for any photos or video they have taken. If you would like to get in touch with Bucks County Detectives, that number is 215-348-6354.
The students that were arrested walked away from a sanctioned protest which was in front of the school.