DALLAS -- There have been a lot of protests across the country recently over police officers' use of force. But now officers are marching for one of their own to challenge his termination.
Officer Jesus Martinez was fired after cell phone video was released, showing him sitting on top of a man named Joe Wesson, an alleged panhandler, last summer in Deep Ellum. Martinez is seen yanking Wesson's arm over his head several times. Wesson, in handcuffs, doesn't appear to be resisting.
A police report states that Martinez claimed Wesson swung at him and ripped his uniform, forcing him to use pepper spray. Martinez has been charged with official oppression for excessive use of force. An internal investigation last month lead to him being fired.
More than 100 Dallas police officers and business owners marched to City Hall Wednesday, wanting Martinez back on the streets. They say Wesson has a long history of resisting arrest.
"He was attacked by this guy, maced this guy, and then was blinded by his own mace and was holding on until cover arrived," said Richard Todd, president of Fraternal Order of Police.
"I am 57 years old. I'm not thinking that it's that serious for a cop to really take that much force on one guy," Wesson said.
Officer Martinez can appeal the city's decision after he settles the criminal charge against him.
