Video showing Providence officers striking man during arrest under investigation

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Providence police and the mayor’s office are investigating after a video shared on social media appeared to show officers repeatedly hitting a man in handcuffs during an arrest on Pembroke Street. Authorities said the incident happened April 24 and involved officers attempting to take a suspect into custody.

According to police, the man was allegedly resisting arrest and refusing commands before officers used force during the encounter. The video, which quickly circulated online, prompted criticism and renewed questions about police use-of-force policies in Providence.

Providence Police Chief Oscar Perez said the department’s Internal Affairs Bureau is reviewing the incident, while Mayor Brett Smiley confirmed the city is also conducting its own review. Officials said additional information could be released once the investigation is complete.