Rochester NY police under fire after video goes viral of pregnant woman allegedly punched during arrest

A video showing a Rochester, NY police officer punching a pregnant woman during an arrest has placed the department under intense scrutiny.

What the Video Shows

The video shows 21‑year‑old Brenda Hardaway and her 16‑year‑old brother being subdued by Rochester police.
During the first 45 seconds, Officer Lucas Krull pins Hardaway face‑down on a car while trying to cuff her.

Hardaway resists and repeatedly tells officers she is pregnant. Krull then strikes her once in the head and forces her to the ground. Other officers move in to help restrain her while additional officers take her brother into custody.

Police Response

After reviewing the footage, Rochester Police Chief James Sheppard said the officer acted within department guidelines. He stated that Krull used a “distraction technique” taught to officers when someone resists arrest.

Sheppard urged the public to consider the full context of the incident, including moments not shown in the video.

Why Police Arrested the Siblings

Police responded to a call about a domestic dispute involving Hardaway’s brother.

Officers say Hardaway pointed pepper spray at them, which led to her arrest.

• Police charged Hardaway with resisting arrest and assault.
• Police charged her brother with resisting arrest and disorderly conduct.

Internal Review Underway

Sheppard said the department is reviewing the officers’ actions, as it does with all uses of force.

The review will determine whether the officers followed training and policy.