A judge has ruled that body camera footage of a Grove Arcade worker’s arrest will be made public after a recent court hearing
During a quick session on January 13, Judge Gary Gavenus approved the release of the video to the public. City attorney John Maddux was the only one there. When asked if anyone from the Asheville Police Department was present, he said he represented both the city and the police.
Maddux mentioned that the video could be available soon, depending on how fast the police department can get it ready. He noted that in the past, they’ve shared such videos on their YouTube channel.
In North Carolina, police recordings can only be released through a court order. This is why the hearing was necessary. The Asheville Police Department has previously released videos of controversial arrests, including one from May 2023.
On December 9, 63-year-old janitor Louis Searles was arrested by three officers while working. They were investigating a stolen vehicle, which Searles had nothing to do with. Witnesses were outraged by how he was treated, with videos showing officers taking him down and using a Taser.
Searles, a lifelong resident of Asheville and grandfather, was visibly shaken by the incident. He expressed his hurt and anger, saying it was something he never expected to happen to him.
He was taken to the Buncombe County Detention Facility and initially faced charges. However, before they were filed, an officer told him it was a misunderstanding and apologized.
City Attorney Brad Branham emphasized the importance of transparency, stating that the body cam footage would clarify what led to the incident, which isn’t fully captured in the cell phone videos.
Maddux confirmed that all officers involved were notified and had the chance to speak at the hearing, but none showed up. The APD is reviewing the officers’ actions to ensure they followed proper procedures.
This story will be updated as more information becomes available.
