Following the release of a disturbing video capturing police harass a family over stolen toys, Jay-Z's Roc Nation has secured attorneys to provide legal support for the family.
The Arizona Republic reports the philanthropic arm of rapper Jay-Z's Roc Nation, Team Roc, has reached out to the family with the intention of providing legal aid. On May 29, Phoenix Police pulled over Dravon Ames, 22, and his pregnant fiancée, 24-year-old Aisha Harper because their 4-year-old toddler daughter allegedly stole a doll from a dollar store.
Footage from the incident showed officers draw their weapons, yell obscenities and use what some would call excessive force. The couple, who are suing the city for $10 million, claim police pointed guns at their small children during the tense encounter. Their lawsuit claimed the incident caused emotional distress and the officers violated the family's civil rights due to unlawful imprisonment and false arrest.
Team ROC is reportedly calling for the officers involved to be terminated. Spokesperson Didier Morais said the philanthropic organization wants to "ensure the well-being of the children."
Team ROC has secured attorney Alex Spiro to join the family legal team. He will spearhead a suit charging officers with child neglect, Fox 10 reports.
"There is no place for that behavior in our world – let alone our justice system – and we are calling for the immediate termination of the police officers in question," Roc Nation Managing Director of Philanthropy Dania Diaz said in a statement. "We are committed to supporting the family to ensure that justice is served.”
In wake of the backlash and controversy stemming from the viral video, police released documents alleging the couple stole other items prior to the encounter. Phoenix Police Chief Jeri Williams, however, has condemned her officers' treatment of the family. Officers involved are currently under review in an ongoing investigation.
Over the past few months, Team ROC has lent its legal services to 21 Savage, a Memphis, Tennessee, teen harassed by mall police and a Polk County, Florida, student who was punished for refusing to stand for the national anthem.
