Nashville Metro Police Officer Matthew Cammarn was attempting to arrest Brian Shannon for beating a woman at a housing development when bystanders began shoving, kicking, and punching the officer.
Cammarn says when he confronted Shannon, the suspect pushed him to the ground in the Nashville neighborhood while videos also show that other people attacked Officer Cammarn.
Shannon managed to escape on foot, before he was later apprehended. He is currently facing several charges, including aggravated assault on a police officer and drug possession.
A second suspect, Michael Mays, 26, has also been charged with aggravated assault against a police officer.
Nashville Police Chief Steve Anderson said “Attacks on police officers will not be tolerated,” and added that more officers will patrol the South 7th St area where Officer Cammarn was attacked.
“Attacks on our police officers are outrageous and completely unacceptable,” said Nashville Mayor Megan Barry Thursday during a press conference. “This is not an issue of community clashing with police. Officers were caught in the middle of disputes.”
Officer Cammarn was awarded cop of the year in 2015 for saving the life of a 17-year-old gunshot victim.
The attack on Cammarn came just 24 hours after another officer was injured in the same public housing development. On Monday night, Officer Josh Hausman was cut on his hand while attempting to break up a fight. Both officers received medical treatment for their injuries before going back on duty.
During Thursday’s press conference, Rev. Michael Joyner said “Clergy will work in S. 7th St area to reduce tensions & disputes among residents.”
The footage below shows the shocking attacks on Officer Cammarn.
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