SAN FRANCISCO: Police Launch Investigation Of Brawl At Gay Pride

San Francisco police have launched an investigation after officers were recorded beating back a crowd of brawling women at last Sunday's gay pride celebration. According to some, the police responded with excessive force. It is unknown if the brawling women are lesbians.

The incident took place about 7:30 p.m. Sunday on Hyde Street near United Nations Plaza, according to police. A video of the altercation, which has been posted on YouTube, shows several people gathered in a narrow sidewalk area, yelling and then being pushed back by police officers. At a certain point, an officer is seen beating someone with a baton. Later, several more officers, including some from the California Highway Patrol, come to assist and several people are detained. Two women are later seen grabbing at a CHP officer's baton, prompting cheering from the crowd gathered to watch. At various times, people can be heard yelling, "F--- the police!" A male voice can then be heard saying, "They're just doing their job, man!" and "You don't punch a cop."

Police spokeswoman Lt. Lyn Tomioka said police initially responded to break up a fight between two women, and then the officers were surrounded and attempted to disperse the crowd. Six women were taken into custody; another was cited and released. Tomioka said the department's internal affairs division is investigating the use of force by the officers. "It's an ongoing investigation, but use of force ... it's why we try to talk to people, but when we have no other option, use of force is required, unfortunately," Tomioka said. "But to the public, it never looks pretty.

Five women were charged with assaulting a police officer and resisting arrest. All have been released and are due in court on August 5th. From watching the tape, it appears to me that the cops performed as well as could be hoped in an outnumbered and out of control situation. Again folks, you do not put your hands on a cop, no matter what the situation. Take that bad arrest (if it IS one) to civil court and get your satisfaction there.