Goldsboro police have released body camera footage of a January arrest involving Talek Carter, which allegedly sparked public outcry and led to an internal investigation. The video footage, approved for release by a judge, has raised concerns about the officers’ use of force, the handling of the situation, and communication with the suspect. The incident involved four officers, and while their use of force was deemed within policy, the officers faced disciplinary action for violating the department’s professional presence and communication standards.
Talek Carter Struggles with the Police Officers
The body camera footage reveals the moments leading up to the arrest of Talek Carter on January 28, 2025, at an apartment complex on Day Circle. Carter, who was wearing a walking boot on his left foot, appeared to be engaged in a verbal confrontation with officers after they approached him. Officers allegedly asked Carter for his name multiple times, but he resisted, stating that he had every right to be on the property. The situation quickly escalated when officers handcuffed Carter and took him to the ground, prompting Carter to ask, “What are you doing?”
Carter repeatedly told officers that he was not doing anything wrong and was simply trying to leave the property. In one of the videos, Carter says, “You don’t have to harass me. You don’t have to walk at me. Like, I’m not wrong.” Despite his objections, officers continued to demand his name, which led to further tension and the eventual struggle that was captured on both body camera and bystander video.
The Use of Force and Public Concerns
As the situation escalated, the video footage shows officers allegedly kicking Carter in his boot and slamming him to the ground for a second time. This part of the video, shared online by witnesses, quickly went viral and triggered public concerns about excessive force. One bystander can be heard saying, “This isn’t OK!” as Carter was taken to the ground again.
Goldsboro police initially stated that the officers’ use of force was consistent with department policy and legal standards. However, following the release of the video, an internal investigation was launched, and four officers were disciplined for allegedly violating the department’s policies related to professional presence and communication. While the city did not release the names of the officers or the specifics of the disciplinary actions, the incident has raised questions about the appropriateness of the officers’ conduct during the arrest.
Charges and Aftermath
Carter was charged with several offenses, including second-degree trespassing, assault on a law enforcement officer, carrying a concealed weapon, resisting arrest, and damage to property. He was also treated at UNC Health Wayne for injuries he allegedly sustained during the arrest. The public release of the footage has contributed to the ongoing debate about police conduct, especially in situations where individuals may not be immediately perceived as a threat but still face forceful treatment.
Community Reactions and Calls for Accountability
The release of the body camera footage has led to a wider conversation about police accountability, use of force, and the need for better communication and de-escalation tactics in law enforcement encounters. Advocacy groups and community members have called for transparency in police practices and better training for officers to handle non-violent situations without resorting to force.
Contact Police Brutality Center for Legal Assistance
If you or someone you know has been affected by police use-of-force incidents, particularly in situations involving questionable arrests or excessive force, you may be entitled to legal compensation. Police Brutality Center connects individuals with experienced civil rights attorneys, including partners at Meirowitz & Wasserberg, who specialize in police misconduct cases.
Reach out to Police Brutality Center today for a confidential consultation and learn how we can help you seek justice.
