The College of Charleston has released surveillance and body camera footage showing the arrest of two juveniles accused of attempting to steal an e-scooter on campus, following public reaction to video of the incident circulating online.
Incident Reported on Campus
According to the College of Charleston Department of Public Safety, officers responded around 2 p.m. Wednesday to Cougar Mall near Calhoun Street. A staff member had reported seeing two individuals attempting to steal a scooter.
Campus surveillance cameras were used to track the suspects, allowing officers to locate them nearby shortly after the report.
Attempted Detention and Arrest
Officers attempted to detain the two suspects, later identified as a 13-year-old and a 16-year-old. Incident reports state that both juveniles initially refused to cooperate, and one briefly attempted to flee.
During the encounter, one of the juveniles resisted officers and was taken to the ground so he could be placed into custody.
Both were transported to the department’s headquarters for questioning.
Admission and Recovery of Stolen Property
Authorities say one of the juveniles later admitted to stealing a scooter roughly an hour before the incident and attempting to take another.
The stolen e-scooter, valued at approximately $500, was recovered.
Both juveniles were released to their parents later that same day. Due to their ages, their identities have not been made public.
Video Release and Public Response
Video of the arrest began circulating on social media, raising concerns among some viewers about how the situation was handled.
In response, the college released additional footage from surveillance systems and officers’ body-worn cameras to provide a fuller account of the incident.
Internal Review and Statement
College officials said the incident underwent a standard internal review process, including examination of surveillance footage, body camera recordings, and videos captured by bystanders.
According to the college, no injuries were reported, and an initial review found that officers acted in accordance with department policy.
In a statement, the College of Charleston emphasized that campus safety remains a top priority and noted that public safety officers receive ongoing training and regularly review their procedures.
