Pensacola arrest video elicits reaction

PENSACOLA, Fla. (WALA) - Dash cam video that allegedly shows a Pensacola police officer using what authorities have called “unnecessary force” while making an arrest, has garnered reaction from citizens.

Investigators said the incident occurred around 2:30 a.m. on August 2 when Officer Christopher Geraci responded to a hit-and-run crash at the intersection of D and Cervantes Streets.

The video allegedly shows Geraci using excessive force while arresting 29-year-old Abbi Bonds, who was found with her car on North C Street. According to police reports, the car had heavy front end damage and was disabled.

In the video, Geraci approached Bonds and grabbed her by her left arm, pulling her into the side of the car. He then grabs her and forces her into the car while placing her in handcuffs.

Reactions on the FOX10 Facebook page have ranged from disgust with the officer’s actions to understanding. Some said they believe the victim simply lost her balance when the officer went to move her.

FOX 10 also went out to see what other folks thought of the video.

 Jessica Stewart said she couldn’t believe Geraci’s actions.

“I thought it was ridiculous. He didn’t have to do that. She was not resisting. That was definitely excessive force,” said Stewart.

 “We weren’t comfortable with what we saw. It’s important for citizens to know when we come across something we’re not comfortable with, we make the appropriate action,” Chip Simmons said.

 Officials said Geraci was fired from the Pensacola Police Department. He was also arrested and charged with battery.

Bonds was charged with leaving the scene of a crash, failure to yield, driving under the influence and no proof of insurance.