West Chester police release video of officers using batons

WEST CHESTER, Ohio - In an unusual move, West Chester police released video of a fight officers had with a man in a local bar last month.

Police were called to the Win, Place or Show Bar on Route 42 on May 6 after a large fight broke out with people threatening to "shoot up the place". When officers arrived, they found 29-year-old Jeremy Lewis outside on the deck patio. Witnesses told officers Lewis had been involved in the bar fight.

Police say Lewis showed signs of aggression and would not comply with their orders. He was sprayed with mace at least twice and forced to the ground. According to Chief Erik Niehaus, the officers began striking Lewis with their police batons after he would not comply.

"The officers continued to strike at the arms and legs of the suspect as he tried to kick," said Chief Niehaus.

"We call it the weapon delivery system. The officers are aiming for the weapon delivery system. The arms and the legs. They are trying to strike what is trying to strike them," he said.

On the video, three officers can be seen hitting Lewis with their batons for about 10 seconds. After that, they continue to struggle with him to get him under control and there are additional strikes.

Chief Niehaus went through the video with the media to explain the officers actions. He said Lewis refused medical care at the scene.

According to the police report, the three officers involved are identified as Officer Randall Farris, Officer Paul Lovell and Officer Gary Gabbard. None of the officers were injured.

Police say they also have photos of Lewis' legs and arms that are consistent with being struck by a police baton.

Lewis was charged with three counts of assault, one count of resisting arrest and one count of obstructing official business. However, the Butler County grand jury this week did not indict him.