Boone County prosecutor ‘monitoring’ investigation into Columbia police officers’ downtown response

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

The Boone County prosecutor said his office was aware of the investigation into two Columbia police officers seen holding down and hitting a person Downtown on Sunday morning.

Prosecutor Roger Johnson told ABC 17 News in an email that the office was "aware of the recent incident and are monitoring the situation closely."

Johnson said he would not comment on what his office might do with the case while the investigation continues.

Columbia police announced Sunday night that the Boone County Sheriff's Office would investigate the officers' response on South Tenth Street early that morning. A video shows one officer hitting someone in the face several times while another officer holds them down.

Police did not say what prompted their response before the video began recording.

Johnson did not say if his office would handle a decision on charges, or if he would appoint a special prosecutor to review the case. The Boone County Prosecutor's Office has previously asked other prosecutors to review cases when law enforcement officers kill someone during a call.

"However, it is important to note that we cannot take action or make a statement until the investigation is concluded," Johnson said. "We are committed to ensuring a fair and impartial investigation into any allegations of police misconduct and will review all evidence presented in the case. We understand the public's concerns and are dedicated to promoting transparency and accountability in all aspects of law enforcement."

Johnson said he did not have enough information on the Sunday situation to decide if it would affect other cases involving the two officers.