The Shrewsbury Police Department has acknowledged an incident involving its officers after a video circulated on social media, drawing scrutiny over the department’s use of force. The video, originally published by an investigative YouTube channel focused on police accountability, shows a late-night interaction between officers and a group of individuals inside a parked vehicle.
According to the video, the encounter took place in late February around 11 p.m. when a police cruiser pulled up in front of a car occupied by several friends. Officers approached the vehicle, requesting identification and registration from the driver despite no apparent traffic infraction. The situation escalated after officers reportedly took issue with a passenger in the back seat recording the encounter. The video alleges that Officer Ahmed Kafel became confrontational, broke a vehicle window, and forcefully removed the passenger.
The footage shows officers restraining the individual on the ground, with witnesses in the car questioning the officers’ actions. The video claims the passenger was charged with assaulting a peace officer, resisting arrest, and disturbing the peace.
In response, Shrewsbury Police Chief Kevin Anderson released a statement addressing the public’s concerns.
“We want to assure our community that we are aware of the social media video involving our department and are actively reviewing the situation. We take this matter seriously and are committed to a thorough and fair assessment to ensure all necessary steps are taken,” Anderson stated.
Chief Anderson emphasized its commitment to “transparency and accountability” but did not confirm specific details of the incident as depicted in the video. Anderson assured the public that an internal review is underway and asked for patience as the process unfolds.
The YouTube channel that published the footage describes itself as a platform advocating for police accountability, opposing qualified immunity, and calling for reforms such as requiring personal liability insurance for officers.
It remains unclear whether additional evidence, such as body-worn camera footage, will be released to clarify the events leading up to the use of force.
Shrewsbury Police have not announced any disciplinary action or policy changes at this time.
The viral video is available below.
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