Authorities say the man was drinking in public, and the officers asked him to leave and he refused. The officers allege they tried to issue a citation, but he wouldn't comply. WUSA9
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WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Metro spokesperson Cathy Asato says the two Metro transit police officers involved in the arrest of a man in a wheelchair last Thursday have been assigned to administrative duties. Also Tuesday, the U.S. Attorney's Office dismissed one of the charges against the man.
The incident took place outside the U Street Metro Station, right across the street from the Lincoln Theatre and Ben's Chili Bowl.
A video recorded by a bystander shows Metro transit officers lifting Dwight Harris, also known as Mr. Harry, out of his wheelchair and throwing him on the ground before arresting him.
Metro Transit Police say Harris was drinking in public, and they asked him to leave. He refused. They allege they tried to issue a citation, but he wouldn't comply.
Harris was charged with drinking in public and assaulting a police officer. He was taken to a local hospital and treated for his injuries. He sustained a black eye and cut to his forehead that required stitches.
The U.S. Attorney's Office dismissed the charge of assaulting a police officer, and officials with the office say they are now reviewing the entire case.
The D.C. Office of the Attorney General is handling the charge of having an open container of alcohol.
Harris won't say what was in the cup that he was sipping from at the station, but he says it didn't deserve the kind of brutal take down administered by the Metro transit officers.
Metro Transit Police Chief Michael Tabor ordered an internal probe. He said the probe should take seven to 10 days.
