Arizona Father Handcuffed and Forced to Ground by Police After Calling for Help

Darnay Cockrell’s call for help turned into a nightmare when responding officers handcuffed and forced him to the ground, despite his pleas and medical condition. The shocking incident, captured on bodycam and bystander footage, has sparked outrage and consequences for Cockrell.

The 52-year-old father, who had recently undergone surgery and had knee issues, asked officers to simply put his hands in cuffs instead of forcing him to the ground. However, his requests were ignored, and he was subdued and handcuffed against his will.

Cockrell’s neighbor, Lenair Tucker, set up a GoFundMe page to support him, highlighting the unjust treatment he faced. The Mesa Police Department defended the officers’ actions, citing Cockrell’s high level of emotion and failure to follow directions.

In a Zoom call with ABC15, Cockrell expressed his frustration and sense of dehumanization during the incident. He recounted how his daughter was briefly kidnapped by her mother, who he claims is a drug addict, leading to the police involvement.

The aftermath of the incident has been severe for Cockrell, as he was fired from his job after the video went viral on social media. Despite the setbacks, Cockrell has filed a complaint against the officers and received support from the community through the GoFundMe page.

As the investigation continues, Cockrell remains determined to seek justice and hold the officers accountable for their actions. The release of the footage has shed light on the need for police reform and accountability in handling sensitive situations.