The Richmond Police Department in Virginia is facing backlash after one of its officer reportedly told a group of Black middle schoolers they belong to him when they turn 18.
According to NBC News, the incident occurred Thursday outside of the city’s Albert Hill Middle School. Cameron Hilliard, a student at the school, captured the interaction on her cellphone.
The 13-year-old says she recalled someone shouting "f**k the police," but those words weren't said by any of her friends. The deputy ordered the students to "man up," much to their confusion. Before taking off in his vehicle, the officer reportedly said "Wait until your a*ses turn 18, then you're mine."
In a statement to NBC News, Richmond PD confirmed an internal investigation into the matter has been launched.
"The Department takes these concerns very seriously," the statement read. "The officer in the video is currently being investigated by the Internal Affairs Division."
Cameron and her mother, Keisha Curry, posted a YouTube video sharing their thoughts on the encounter. Curry doesn't believe the deputy should be relieved of his duties but reassigned to another division within the force.
"I don't feel he needs to lose his job," Curry said. "He just shouldn't be patrolling the streets."
The Richmond chapter of the NAACP confirmed to ABC8 News it is also spearheading a probe.
Newsweek obtained a statement from Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney, and the city official condemned the officer's remarks against the students.
"This type of behavior will not be tolerated by any employee of the City of Richmond," Stoney declared. "I trust that the Richmond Police Department will conduct a quick and thorough investigation and respond accordingly."
He continued: "This behavior is unacceptable. It reinforces stereotypes of our communities that are hurtful and damages the relationship between our police department and the citizens they are charged to serve."
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