HSU officer investigated for excessive use of force

On July 14, Humboldt State University sent out an email about an open investigation for excessive use of force by an HSU officer arising out of an incident at HSU’s Humboldt Bay Aquatic Center in Eureka. 

The email stated that on July 8 the officer encountered an African American male who was sleeping outside the building in violation of university encampment regulations. The officer woke the man, who stood and began to walk away. The officer repeatedly asked the man to stop and provide his name. In an attempt to physically stop the man, the officer grabbed his arm. When he tried to pull away, the officer proceeded to spray him with pepper spray. 

The victim was arrested, treated by paramedics and later released. His case has now been submitted to the Humboldt County District Attorney’s office. 

The officer has been placed on administrative paid leave until further investigation on whether the officer’s actions are aligned with California State University’s use of force policy and UPD protocols.