Video shows Lake Charles police officer straddling, punching man in face as department launches investigation

LAKE CHARLES, La. (KPLC) - A video posted to social media of a man being punched by a Lake Charles police officer has sparked an internal affairs investigation.

Ijahmaan Ali Mason, 39, requested emergency services near Ryan and 15^th streets around 6 Tuesday morning, police said. In the nearly nine-minute video, an officer can be seen straddling Mason and punching him the face.

In the video, Mason is heard saying he called 911 for help. Multiple officers responded to the scene and eventually carried Mason into a unit.

Police said Mason faces charges of resisting an officer and false communication with intent to cause an emergency response.

The Lake Charles Police Department provided the following statement:

“We are aware of a video currently circulating on social media regarding an incident involving our department. An Internal Affairs investigation has been initiated to review the circumstances surrounding the matter.

“We understand the public interest and concerns that have been raised. The department is committed to conducting a thorough, objective, and impartial review of all available information. Accountability, professionalism, and maintaining the public’s trust remain priorities throughout this process.

“As this is an active investigation, we are limited in the details we can provide at this time. We ask the public to allow the investigative process to proceed so that all facts can be carefully reviewed before conclusions are drawn.”