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Indybay Feature

D'Paris Williams and Witnesses beaten by San Francisco Police

by WeCopwatch
D'Paris Williams and several witness's beaten by SFPD.
If you know anyone present at either attacks please contact WeCopwatch [at] gmail.com
dparis-williams-portrait-travis-jensen.jpg
Reposted from Travis Jensen
Yesterday afternoon, while riding his bicycle home from the Make A Wish Foundation's "Bat Kid" happenings, DJ was confronted by two undercover police officers in an unmarked vehicle at the Valencia Gardens Apartments in the City's Mission District. Apparently, the officers said something to DJ about riding his bicycle on the sidewalk as he was pulling up to his home in the complex. It is unclear whether the officers identified themselves or not, but did proceed to get out of their car, grab DJ from behind as he was entering the home and beat him for no apparent reason. A police search uncovered a cupcake and juice that DJ had just purchased from the corner store. Nobody has spoken to DJ since the incident occurred as he was immediately taken to S.F. General Hospital for treatment, and then to the 850 Bryant police station. So far, it appears no charges have been made against DJ either. There is building video surveillance footage of DJ's confrontation w/ police, but it that has yet to be released by housing authority. Furthermore, three residents came to DJ's aid when they saw officers beating him up, only to find themselves also under attack by officers. By this time, uniformed backup had arrived on the scene. Including DJ, a total of four individuals were beaten and arrested by officers.

UPDATE: We're now getting more information about the incident.

We're told that the scene unfolded right as DJ was entering his house. As he was questioned by undercover narcotic agents, the officer in the black baseball hat (pictured above) grabbed DJ and shoved his head into his front door. DJ's sister, who was holding a newborn baby, was witness to the entire scene. When she approached the door where DJ was being assaulted, a second officer pushed her.

They then dragged DJ into the street and punched him in the head until he was knocked out. Others in lock-up with DJ report that he blacked out and has no recollection of what happened. DJ is still in custody and not being allowed to speak to anyone; however, criminal charges are yet to be filed.

Currently two of the other three men who were arrested have been released.

We're told man seen holding the cane in the video is a gay, HIV-positive man who needs his cane because of medical complications. The police are continuing to hold him in custody, allegedly because his cane is being considered a "deadly weapon."

Orlando (last name unknown), who had his face bloodied after pulling the man with the cane away from officers, was released "a few hours ago," according to Travis Jensen.
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§Rally for DJ, Tuesday 5 PM at Mission Police Station
by landline
We're organizing a rally for DJ and other victims tomorrow (Tuesday) at 5:00p.m. in front of the Mission District Police Station at 17th and Valencia. Please come out and show your support.
We are 100% volunteer and depend on your participation to sustain our efforts!

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