APPLETON, Wis. (WFRV) – The Appleton Police Department has released body camera and traffic camera footage from a May 3 incident that sparked debate on social media.
On Thursday, Polly Olson issued a statement defending the officers’ actions, saying the use of force was reviewed through body-worn camera footage.
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The department determined the officers involved acted within the scope of their training, department policy and state law.
In an effort to provide transparency, police released additional video to show the full context of the incident.
“We understand that when a short clip circulates online, it often raises important questions, and we want to ensure you have access to the full context,” said Community Resource Unit/Public Information Officer John Ostermeier.
According to the department, when officers respond to an active disturbance, their immediate responsibility is to stop the fight as quickly as possible to prevent further injury to those involved and bystanders.
Officials noted that officers often do not see what led up to an altercation and must act quickly to stop assaultive behavior. In rapidly evolving situations — especially in crowded environments such as bar close times — identifying a primary aggressor can be difficult.
Police said Officer Hruby’s body camera shows her view of the initiating event was obstructed and that she began reacting after the altercation was already underway.
The department also stated that focused strikes are a trained and approved part of Wisconsin’s Defense and Arrest Tactics (DAAT) system. These strikes are considered an “active countermeasure” used to create brief dysfunction so officers can safely gain control, stop violence or separate individuals. Police emphasized that such strikes are not punitive and are used only as long as necessary to restore control.
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“Our goal is not to dismiss concerns, but to provide facts that help our community understand the whole picture,” the department said in a statement. “When we identify areas where we can improve, we take that seriously and act on it. When officers handle a situation professionally and within policy, we are equally committed to acknowledging that truth as well. This commitment to transparency is ongoing, not a one-time action.”
The incident remains under investigation.
