The Sweetwater Police Department has unveiled video footage of an incident that led to the forceful arrest of a 61-year-old Cuban woman this past Wednesday. The arrest took place at the administrative office of the Li'l Abner Mobile Home Park, which is currently undergoing demolition.
The released footage includes views from the officer's body camera as well as a surveillance camera within the office where the event occurred. In the videos, Vivian Hernández is seen refusing to leave, taking a seat, and insisting she was there to pay rent. Shortly thereafter, Officer Brian Arias approached her, forcibly lifted her from her chair, dragged her several feet by the shoulders, and ultimately threw her to the ground to handcuff her.
A police spokesperson, as reported by Telemundo 51, stated that Hernández's resistance necessitated the forced eviction because she was "disturbing the peace" at the location. However, local authorities are investigating whether the use of force was within regulatory boundaries.
Civil rights groups have criticized the police response, deeming it excessive given that Hernández was an elderly woman who, despite not complying with the police order, did so peacefully. According to Hernández, the confrontation arose when she visited the administrative office to pay her rent and voice her concerns about the conditions resulting from the demolition of some homes, which began on the same day.
"The dust was affecting families with asthma due to the asbestos," Hernández mentioned in her statement to the media. She described how the officer broke her glasses and caused "several head contusions" when he threw her to the ground, as confirmed by a medical evaluation following her night in jail.
The police maintain that Hernández resisted arrest, justifying their use of force. However, Hernández argues she was subjected to unnecessary violence. To date, neither the mayor nor the police chief has commented on the situation.
Vivian Hernández is now facing charges of resisting arrest without violence and disorderly conduct. Meanwhile, Urban Group continues with the evictions—a process criticized for its impact on hundreds of affected families.
On the night of the arrest, a group of residents from the mobile home park staged a protest outside the Sweetwater City Hall, expressing their disapproval of Hernández's detention.
Key Questions About the Sweetwater Arrest Incident
What led to the arrest of Vivian Hernández?
Vivian Hernández was arrested after refusing to leave the administrative office of the Li'l Abner Mobile Home Park, insisting she was there to pay rent and express concerns over demolition conditions.
How have civil rights groups responded to the arrest?
Civil rights groups have criticized the police's response as disproportionate, especially considering Hernández's age and peaceful behavior.
What charges does Vivian Hernández face?
Vivian Hernández is charged with resisting arrest without violence and disorderly conduct.