Originally Posted by FBinNY

Discounting conspiracy theories, it's safe to accept that it was a lawful stop for the reasons given -- sidewalk, no helmet. After all, why else would the cop single out this kid. I'll also credit the official explanation that the cop's actions were a reaction to the kid being a wiseguy and/or belligerent.

But IMO, even granting all the official claims, it till doesn't justify the cop's actions. It's a question of proportionality, and his ability to manage the situation, and it's a fail on both points. If a cop can't manage a 14 year old kid without violence, then we have to wonder how he'd fare with a 225# adult drunk.

As for the kid's refusal to give a name, no problem, take the bike, and tell him that he can bring his parents to the station to claim it. Or take the bike, and tell the kid you need his name so his parents can reclaim it. Explain that his parent's ID will have to match the name or else they won't be allowed to reclaim the bike.

My point isn't as much abut the force as it is about failing to manage a situation without needing any force, or with minimal force.