The Tyreek Hill Traffic Stop: A Critical Look at Police Conduct

Being pulled over by the police, and things quickly escalating into a physical altercation. That's exactly what happened to Miami Dolphins star receiver Tyreek Hill during a traffic stop outside Hard Rock Stadium. The 30-year-old Hill was driving his McLaren sports car when he was pulled over by two motorcycle officers. The stop quickly turned sour when Hill put up his window, prompting the officer to rap on it with his knuckle. The officer demanded Hill get out of the car, but Hill refused, saying he didn't want to create a scene. As the situation escalated, an officer grabbed Hill by the arm and neck and forced him face-first onto the ground. Hill was handcuffed and pinned to the ground, despite complaining of pain in his surgically repaired knee. The officer's body camera video shows that Hill was cooperative and tried to follow the officer's orders. The Miami-Dade Police Department has put one officer on administrative leave, and an internal affairs investigation is underway. The department needs to take a closer look at its policies and procedures to ensure that officers are treating citizens with respect and dignity. The Dolphins have called for swift and strong action against the officers, and it's time for the community to demand the same. Police officers must be trained to de-escalate situations peacefully and treat citizens with respect and dignity.