SPOKANE -- Security camera video captured a controversial move made by a security guard at the Spokane Transit Authority Plaza last week
STA says when an argument started between two people, a security guard intervened.
Steven Dodson said he and a bus passenger were engaged in a verbal argument at the Plaza. When the bus came, the passenger boarded. When Dodson was getting ready to leave, he said the STA guard put his hand on his shoulder to stop him.
Dodson said when he smacked the guard’s hand way from his shoulder, the guard ordered him to get on the ground. When he refused, Dodson said the guard hit him with pepper spray.
Video also shows the guard using his stick to smack Dodson in the leg. The guard followed Dodson down the street and did it again.
STA officials said the guard did what he could to intervene and to protect the public. There was a large crowd gathered around watching the incident.
Dodson said he now faces charges from Spokane Police for simple assault for smacking the guard’s hand.
Dodson said he suffered contusions to the back of his knee. He plans on taking his case to court.
STA officials said the guard suffered an injury, but it didn't keep him from being able to return to work the next day.
