Viral video of police arrest in Kinston sparks outrage, questions use of force [VIDEO]

Bystander Footage Shows Officer Striking Black Teen During Arrest

A newly surfaced video showing a Kinston police officer using force during the arrest of an 18-year-old Black man has gone viral on social media. Therefore, drawing local and national scrutiny. The incident occurred yesterday (July 13), in Kinston, North Carolina. It involves Cameron Williams, a resident arrested after police responded to a suspected breaking and entering at a property managed by the Kinston Housing Authority.

The footage was originally posted to Facebook and later shared across platforms like X (formerly Twitter). It depicts at least one officer pinning Williams to the ground and delivering multiple strikes as he allegedly resists arrest. The video was recorded by a bystander and is approximately one minute long. It has sparked backlash over what many view as excessive force, particularly given Williams’ age and unarmed status.

What Happened: The Arrest of Cameron Williams

According to the Kinston Police Department (KPD), officers were called to the housing authority complex following reports of a break-in and larceny. Upon arrival, Corporal A. Beck and another officer encountered Cameron Williams, who they say was trespassing and matched the suspect description.

Per arrest warrants and KPD’s official statement, Williams initially ignored officers’ commands to stop. He allegedly attempted to walk away, pulled away during the attempted detention, and verbally threatened Corporal Beck, stating, “I’mma beat yo.” Police also allege Williams discouraged nearby minors from intervening or calling for help.

A physical struggle ensued, with officers forcing Williams to the ground and attempting to cuff him. According to police, Williams kept his arms beneath his body, resisting efforts to be handcuffed. In response, officers struck him multiple times in an attempt to gain control.

The Video That Sparked Outrage

The viral video captures a portion of the altercation. It shows Williams being held face-down on the pavement by two officers. One officer delivers multiple blows, described by witnesses and commentators as closed-fist strikes. Bystanders can be heard questioning the officers’ actions: “Why are you doing that? He’s not even resisting!”

Medics were called to the scene for a potential medical issue, but Williams reportedly refused treatment. He was booked at Lenoir County Jail on charges of Communicating Threats and Resisting a Public Officer. His bond was set at $15,000, and he appeared in court on July 14.

Community Reaction and Police Response

Kinston, a city with a population of roughly 20,000—more than 66% of whom are Black—has a history of contentious police-citizen interactions. Similar incidents in 2021 and 2024 also went viral, leading to public outcry, reviews of police conduct, and temporary officer suspensions.

In response to the current controversy, KPD released a statement pledging transparency and launched an internal review. Mayor Don Hardy echoed the sentiment. Therefore, promising the public would be updated “as appropriate.”

“We’re committed to accountability and a full understanding of what happened,” said Hardy. “We understand the concerns this video raises and are working to ensure the facts are reviewed thoroughly.”

The NAACP chapter in Kinston-Lenoir County has not yet made an official statement. But it has previously been active in calling for oversight of police practices in the area.

Use of Force: Legal or Excessive?

From a legal standpoint, officers are permitted to use force if they believe a suspect is resisting arrest or poses a credible threat. KPD has cited this standard. As a result, pointing to Williams’ alleged threat and refusal to cooperate.

Critics argue the force used was disproportionate to the threat posed. “He’s a teenager, unarmed, and already on the ground. Why the punches?” asked one local resident on X.

Experts note that body-worn camera footage, which has not yet been released to the public, will be crucial in determining the appropriateness of the officers’ actions. In similar past cases, external consultants were brought in to assess compliance with department policy.

Broader Implications for Policing in Black Communities

This incident reflects ongoing national concerns about racial disparities in law enforcement. According to a 2023 ACLU report, Black individuals in North Carolina are disproportionately subject to use of force during police encounters. For Kinston, the Black community comprises a majority of the population. So, these incidents have eroded trust.

“People are tired,” said one activist in a Facebook comment thread. “This isn’t the first time, and unless there’s accountability, it won’t be the last.”

Some residents have called for an external investigation by the State Bureau of Investigation. However, as of today (July 14), no such probe has been confirmed.

Social Media as a Catalyst

The video has reignited debates over the role of bystander footage in police accountability. While some see it as essential for transparency, others caution that such videos often lack context and can misrepresent a complex situation.

Still, the immediacy and emotional impact of the video are undeniable. Within 24 hours, the clip had been shared hundreds of times and viewed thousands more, especially among local community groups and advocacy pages.

Conclusion

The arrest of Cameron Williams is the latest in a series of flashpoints between law enforcement and the community in Kinston. The viral video showing an officer striking Williams has sparked a wave of concern, not just about this one case, but about broader questions of police use of force, racial justice, and community oversight.

While KPD and city officials have moved quickly to open a review, the public—especially in communities of color—remains skeptical. The outcome of the investigation, as well as the potential release of body camera footage, will likely determine whether this becomes another forgotten incident or a catalyst for meaningful change.

For now, residents await answers. As the city reckons with what the footage shows and what it doesn’t, the dialogue around police reform, race, and accountability in small-town America continues to evolve—one viral video at a time.

Meanwhile, Williams is behind bars and his mother is asking for help to secure his release. As a result, that’s also led to discussion among people on social media.