San Diego, January 12, 2026
A social media video highlighting the San Diego Police Department’s use of force during an arrest in Southcrest has sparked community outrage. Critics are calling for accountability from police officials as community activist Tasha Williamson files a complaint, asserting that the incident may violate departmental policies. As the police conduct an internal investigation into the incident, voices within the community continue to push for transparency and adherence to proper policing protocols.
San Diego Police Use of Force Under Scrutiny Following Social Media Video
San Diego, CA – A recent social media video has raised significant concerns regarding the San Diego Police Department’s use of force during an arrest in the Southcrest neighborhood on Saturday night. The footage, shared by a local influencer, depicts officers employing what some community members describe as excessive force during the apprehension of a man outside a liquor store on 38th Street and National Avenue.
In the video, the man appears to be resisting arrest, leading officers to deploy a K-9 unit. Witnesses reported that the man eventually surrendered, raising questions about the necessity and proportionality of the force used. Community activist Tasha Williamson has filed a complaint with San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl, Mayor Todd Gloria, and the State Attorney General’s Office, urging accountability and adherence to the department’s use of force policies. Williamson emphasized that the incident may violate the San Diego Police Department’s training and policies.
The San Diego Police Department has acknowledged the incident and is conducting an internal investigation to assess the appropriateness of the officers’ actions. The department’s Force Analysis Unit is responsible for tracking use of force trends and recommending changes in training based on identified patterns.
This incident is part of a broader conversation about police use of force in San Diego. In June 2025, the First Amendment Coalition filed a lawsuit against the city for withholding public records related to the arrest of local videographer Marcus Evans. Evans was injured during his arrest, and the organization argues that transparency is crucial for public trust in law enforcement.
The San Diego Police Department has a history of revising its use of force policies. In August 2020, the department updated its procedures to include de-escalation tactics and intervention duties, aiming to reduce the use of force in encounters with the public.
As the internal investigation progresses, the community continues to advocate for transparency and accountability in law enforcement practices to ensure the safety and trust of all San Diego residents.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the recent incident involving the San Diego Police Department?
A social media video has raised concerns about the San Diego Police Department’s use of force during an arrest in the Southcrest neighborhood on Saturday night. The footage shows officers employing force during the apprehension of a man outside a liquor store on 38th Street and National Avenue.
What actions have been taken in response to the incident?
Community activist Tasha Williamson filed a complaint with San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl, Mayor Todd Gloria, and the State Attorney General’s Office, urging accountability and adherence to the department’s use of force policies. The San Diego Police Department has acknowledged the incident and is conducting an internal investigation to assess the appropriateness of the officers’ actions.
Has the San Diego Police Department faced similar issues in the past?
Yes, in June 2025, the First Amendment Coalition filed a lawsuit against the city for withholding public records related to the arrest of local videographer Marcus Evans. Evans was injured during his arrest, and the organization argues that transparency is crucial for public trust in law enforcement.
What is the San Diego Police Department’s policy on use of force?
The San Diego Police Department’s Force Analysis Unit is responsible for tracking use of force trends and recommending changes in training based on identified patterns. The department has a history of revising its use of force policies, including updates in August 2020 to include de-escalation tactics and intervention duties, aiming to reduce the use of force in encounters with the public.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Southcrest neighborhood, San Diego, CA |
| Date | Saturday night (specific date not provided) |
| Involved Parties | San Diego Police Department officers, unidentified man |
| Incident Description | Officers used force during the arrest of a man outside a liquor store on 38th Street and National Avenue. The man appeared to resist arrest, leading to the deployment of a K-9 unit. Witnesses reported that the man eventually surrendered. |
| Community Response | Community activist Tasha Williamson filed a complaint with San Diego Police Chief Scott Wahl, Mayor Todd Gloria, and the State Attorney General’s Office, urging accountability and adherence to the department’s use of force policies. |
| Department’s Response | The San Diego Police Department has acknowledged the incident and is conducting an internal investigation to assess the appropriateness of the officers’ actions. |
| Related Legal Action | In June 2025, the First Amendment Coalition filed a lawsuit against the city for withholding public records related to the arrest of local videographer Marcus Evans. Evans was injured during his arrest, and the organization argues that transparency is crucial for public trust in law enforcement. |
| Policy Revisions | The San Diego Police Department has a history of revising its use of force policies, including updates in August 2020 to include de-escalation tactics and intervention duties, aiming to reduce the use of force in encounters with the public. |
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