A viral video posted by a Purdue University student alleges police mistreatment during his arrest.
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — Adonis Tuggle, a Purdue University student, accused Purdue police Officer Jon Selke of repeatedly striking him, elbowing him in the face, covering his face with snow, and choking him during his February 4 arrest.
Tuggle makes the allegations in an Instagram video that shows Selke restraining Tuggle during the arrest. The post has gained widespread attention. The video was allegedly taken by a lady who claimed to be Tuggle’s girlfriend.
“Stop! You’re causing me pain, “On the video, Tuggle stated.
“You’ve been impolite the entire time, bro,” he stated.
The woman orders Selke to remove his arm from around Tuggle’s neck, to which Tuggle responds, “You’re choking me!”
Selke is seen in the video radioing for assistance. The lady filming reaches out and appears to touch Selke, while he commands her to return and warns her that if she touches him again, he will Taser her.
The woman is heard saying, as further officers arrive, “Kindly assist. This officer is not about to let go of his neck. He’s gone too far.”
The Journal & Courier arrived late Thursday morning at Tuggle’s apartment to request an interview, but he was still sleeping, his roommate claimed. The Journal & Courier provided the roommate with its contact information.
Additionally, the J&C emailed Tuggle, asking an interview. He has made no response.
Purdue police Capt. Song Kang said officers were dispatched to Harrison and Horticulture drives at 8:22 p.m. Feb. 4 in response to an urgent report from a third party.
According to Kang, the caller informed Purdue police that it appeared as though a woman was being detained against her will.
Selke arrived on the scene, separated Tuggle and the woman, and then Tuggle refused to comply with Selke’s lawful requests, Kang explained when asked what prompted Selke to restrain and arrest Tuggle.
Kang stated that the department’s reports have been sent to the prosecutor’s office for assessment and possible prosecution.
Tuggle, 24, was arrested at 9:23 p.m. Friday and put into the Tippecanoe County Jail on accusation of resisting law police.
Tuggle was released Friday night after posting a $250 bond.
Purdue News Service published a statement from Chief John Cox late Wednesday night. The statement goes as follows: “Purdue University police learned of an incident that happened Friday night (Feb. 4) involving a Purdue police officer who reacted to an urgent contact from a third party in accordance with our “see something, say something” campus safety guidance. According to the caller, a woman looked to be being detained against her will near Horticulture Drive.” When a PUPD officer uses force during an arrest, the department conducts an internal investigation.
PUPD initiated the review immediately upon receiving the officer’s report on Friday night, lead by Deputy Chief Lesley Wiete. According to PUPD General Orders, the investigation will incorporate testimony from all witnesses to the arrest and will consider all available evidence, including video from officers’ body-worn cameras and statements from the students involved. The incident resulted in no physical harm.” Purdue police treat such incidents seriously. When the internal review is complete, the video from body-worn cameras will be made available, as will all findings and evidence from the review.”
Purdue Graduate Student Government published a statement in support of Tuggle Thursday afternoon, stating that “we condemn all police violence that disproportionately affects Black communities.”
“WE STAND WITH ADONIS TUGGLE!” continued the statement. “We extend our hands in solidarity with our fellow Boilermaker and pledge to raise awareness, advocate, and provide assistance and support in the aftermath of this occurrence.”
Thursday, 7 p.m., the Purdue Black Student Union will host a town hall in Lilly Hall, Room 1-105. Additionally, the meeting will be available through Zoom: ID: 737 0641 0679. The meeting’s passcode is 52xf3z, and it will be streamed live on Instagram at @Purduebsu.
