A lawyers’ group has offered free legal assistance to a policeman involved in a viral incident where a rider was pushed during a confrontation that circulated widely online.
The Lawyers for Commuters Safety and Protection (LCSP) said it is willing to provide legal support to the police officer if needed in the cases that may be filed against him.
The incident first gained public attention after a partial video clip showed the policeman pushing a civilian rider during an encounter. The video sparked criticism online and raised questions about the officer’s actions.
However, another portion of the footage later surfaced, allegedly showing the rider chasing and provoking the policeman before the actual pushing incident occurred.
According to LCSP founder Atty. Ariel Inton, the earlier actions of the rider may be considered provocation and could affect the legal appreciation of the case.
Inton said the available evidence does not support a frustrated murder complaint against the policeman. He explained that there was no clear indication of “intent to kill,” which is a key element in establishing the more serious offense.
Because of this, Inton believes the case should remain under a lower level of criminal liability based on the evidence currently available.
The issue came after the National Police Commission, or NAPOLCOM, earlier questioned the downgrade of the complaint against the police officer.
The viral incident continues to generate debate online as different sectors weigh the actions of both the rider and the policeman shown in the circulating videos.
