Body Camera Footage Unveils Discrepancies in Police Use of Force

HENDERSON, NV – A recent incident involving a Henderson police sergeant has sparked debate over the use of force after body camera footage contradicted the officer’s version of events. The footage shows an altercation between Sergeant Scott O’Ward and a woman, which quickly escalated, leading to questions about the officer’s actions.

The incident took place near Boulder Highway and Basic Road, following a report of a disturbance involving the woman. According to Sergeant O’Ward’s report, the woman appeared agitated and potentially under the influence. He claimed she was preparing to spit at him, prompting him to strike her with an open palm to deflect the perceived attack.

However, the body camera footage does not support O’Ward’s claim of the woman attempting to spit. Instead, it shows her not immediately following the sergeant’s instructions. As the situation intensified, O’Ward called for assistance from a lieutenant.

The report also alleges that the woman concealed a hand under her waist, where O’Ward discovered a sharp pencil. He used his knee to restrain her, citing concerns about her violent tendencies. The pencil was taken as evidence, and witnesses corroborated the woman’s lack of compliance.

Sergeant O’Ward has a history of involvement in police shootings, including cases where the individuals were unarmed. Despite these incidents, he was promoted to sergeant. Initially, the city of Henderson claimed no records existed of O’Ward’s use of force, but later provided a list excluding the October confrontation.

Concerns about the city’s transparency have arisen, as the body camera footage was only released months later, with the officers’ faces obscured but not the woman’s. Attempts to contact the woman were unsuccessful, though records show she faced misdemeanor charges, including resisting arrest.

Internal affairs reviewed the matter, with city officials stating the situation was “handled,” though details remain vague. The case underscores issues of police accountability and the difficulty in accessing public records related to such incidents.