Police Stop Traumatizing

A Ouachita Parish couple may have experienced the scare of their lives on Sunday, February 18, 2024, when they were unexpectedly stopped by West Monroe Police Officers (WMPD) for a crime they were unaware of; Samond Riley and Crystal Canada were driving downtown on Desiard St. when the flashing lights of patrol cars behind them left them puzzled. Unbeknownst to the couple, a shooting had occurred at Lazarre Park in West Monroe, and the suspect had fled across the river to Monroe. The shooting, reported around 12:30 PM, triggered a manhunt after West Monroe Police received a description of the suspect, who allegedly had two hostages in his vehicle when he fled. Two people were shot, with one, a female, succumbing to her wounds. Riley and Canada, however, were en route to visit relatives in Monroe, completely unaware that their plans were about to take a terrifying turn. As Riley pulled over, officers allegedly rushed to their vehicle with weapons drawn, ordering them to exit. The officers' aggressive approach and lack of explanation upset Canada, who asked, "Why, what for?" without receiving a clear response. Canada complied, stepping out of the vehicle, but she was startled when an officer knelt on her back while handcuffing her. Riley, bewildered, asked why they were stopped, to which an officer responded cryptically. Moments later, a Monroe police team arrived, and after a brief discussion between the two police departments, both teams departed. Before leaving, the West Monroe officers explained they had made a mistake, attributing it to miscommunication, followed by what the couple felt was a sarcastic apology, leaving them feeling humiliated yet relieved that the encounter didn't escalate further. Riley and Canada were deeply affected by the incident, with Canada experiencing physical pain from the handcuffing and subsequent hospital visit. She was given medication and instructed to use ice packs for bruises on her wrists and knees. The couple visited the West Monroe Police Department the next day seeking answers, encountering mixed reactions from officers. While one officer showed sympathy, another displayed a dismissive attitude. Their interaction with the Chief left them feeling unheard and disillusioned, with no assurance that the officers' conduct would be addressed. Riley and Canada's experience underscores the potential dangers and lasting impacts of police stops, highlighting the need for clear communication and accountability within law enforcement agencies.