Police body cam footage often shows how dangerous law enforcement work truly is. These men and women respond to calls daily, never really knowing what’s in store. Sometimes suspects react with anger and violence, posing a threat to everyone involved. Body cam footage from police officers in Port St. Lucie, Florida, recorded a 15-year-old girl violently attacking the officer’s cruiser with a shovel during a recent call. She’s not even out of high school, and Amy Chance faces a felony.
The Port St. Lucie Police Department shared dashcam footage of officers arriving at a call in the 1400 block of Bartell Avenue. Someone called 911 to report a domestic disturbance. Footage, which was posted on social media, captured Chance hitting the police cruiser with a shovel. Officers point a taser at the teen, who appears to put her middle finger in the air toward police. Frustrated, an officer orders her to “Get on the [expletive] ground.”
Officers ultimately cuffed Chance on the ground and took her into custody. She reportedly caused $1,200 worth of damage to the police cruiser and faces a criminal mischief charge.
“Regardless of age, resorting to intentional damage to people or property in our city will result in an arrest. With the exceptional training of our officers, Chance was taken into custody without incident,” the police department noted in the caption of the video.
People had mixed reactions to the police department sharing the body cam footage.
Some commenters thought that exposing Chance at 15 was too much.
“While I acknowledge the serious nature of the incident, I find no societal benefit in publicly naming and shaming a 15-year-old, particularly one who appears to be experiencing significant distress,” a concerned person wrote. “I am relieved the situation concluded safely due to the patience shown by the police. However, I am concerned about how this public exposure will impact a young person’s mental well being and stability.”
Others disagreed and believed the punishment fit the alleged crime.
“Once she used a shovel all bets were off. She outed herself… her parents must be so proud!” someone commented.
“I’m not sure you know but thats not how things work when its a felony. Let me guess, a 15 y/o who kills someone (as they have) should be respected because they’re 15 and were distressed? OK,” another person agreed.
But some had empathy for the situation, such as this person who shared their hopes for Chance.
“At least she surrendered peacefully without further incident, rather it be the cruiser than the officer himself and glad the officer and suspect is safe.,” the person commented on the video. “Don’t understand why people are so judgmental, who knows maybe perhaps may have mental health issues if that’s the case hopefully she can get help. If not hopefully she can turn her life around while she’s young learning a hard lesson.”
It’s hard to judge the situation without knowing the full details, but hitting the police cruiser was the wrong move. Feelings of anger and frustration don’t mean you can destroy another person’s property. If this really was a cry for help, hopefully, authorities can lead Chance to the assistance she needs.
