Samuel ‘Big Sam’ Brown demonstration held outside Baltimore County police headquarters demanding justice

TOWSON, Md. — Loved ones of Samuel “Big Sam” Brown held a demonstration outside the Baltimore County Police Headquarters on Friday, calling for accountability in his death.

Family Demands Accountability After Fatal Encounter

The group demanded that Officer Derek Hadel face criminal charges after Brown died following a February encounter in Woodlawn, according to WBFF.

Brown, 56, died on February 27, eleven days after Hadel punched him during an early‑morning interaction on February 16. The Maryland Attorney General’s Office previously released body‑camera footage showing the confrontation.

Samuel ‘Big Sam’ Brown Demonstration Called for Officer’s Firing

Protesters held signs and urged the department to fire Hadel, a nine‑year veteran. They argued the officer escalated a situation that began as a welfare check.

Attorney Billy Murphy, who represents the family, said the footage shows Brown swatting at the officer hands only after being pushed. Murphy said Hadel’s punches caused Brown to fall and strike his head.

In a press conference last week, the family said Brown’s injuries were so severe that it led to his death.

Brown reportedly suffered a broken jaw, broken nose, and brain damage.

Family Rejects Online Narratives

Family members pushed back on claims circulating online that Brown attacked the officer without provocation. They said those narratives misrepresent what happened before the fatal encounter.

Brown’s son, Kamar Brown, traveled from Georgia to join the demonstration and said the community’s support showed how deeply his father was loved, reported WBFF.

Questions About Body‑Camera Footage

Supporters also questioned why portions of the body‑camera video lacked audio due to buffering. They argued the missing audio leaves gaps in understanding the full exchange between Brown and the officer.

The Baltimore County Police Department said it is cooperating with the Maryland Attorney General’s Independent Investigations Division, which is reviewing the case, according to WMAR-2.

Community Pushes for Transparency

Brown’s family said they will continue to demand answers as the investigation moves forward. They described him as a father of six and a beloved figure in his community.

Read more on Samuel ‘Big Sam’ Brown

• Family demands justice after Baltimore County man dies after being punched by police officer in violent encounter
• Samuel Brown’s family sues Baltimore County and officer over fatal police encounter