Officer's use of force under review in Marlow Heights

MARLOW HEIGHTS, Md. (FOX 5 DC) -- Marlow Heights Police are investigating after a video surfaced showing an officer throwing a man to the ground and then punching him last Friday afternoon.

The incident began at the Marlow Heights Shopping Center in the 4100 block of Branch Avenue at around 12 p.m. where the man was reportedly walking in violation of a stay-away order.

Police say the man had been issued a one-year trespass notice on May 15, 2019, for disorderly conduct and public urination at the shopping center.

Following a brief foot pursuit, the officer took the man down on 28th Ave. at Riviera St. after police say the man became irate, formed a closed fist, pulled his right arm out of the officer's hand and began to turn towards the officer.

Police say "the video recording picks up while the officer is attempting to handcuff the subject after informing the subject that he was being placed under arrest. As a result, the subject became irate, and began yelling, 'you're not strong enough.'"

The officer eventually handcuffed the man before he stood up.

Police say the man was charged with trespassing and more charges could be on the way.

FOX 5 has learned the officer will remain on patrol while the investigation continues.