In an initial interview, Humphreys stated that he first saw James Chasse standing some distance away, rocking back and forth in an exaggerated motion.  Humphreys stated that he considered this a sign of intoxication, and that he did not consider that Chasse might be suffering from a mental illness. Humphreys ruled that possibility out from the get-go, concluding that Mr. Chasse had committed a crime, was committing a crime right now, or was about to do so....

When Chasse walked away, out of sight, Humphreys and his partner went looking for him, found him, did not witness Chasse commit any crime, misdemeanor or infraction, and apparently didn't need to. That's when they made the transition from police officers to thugs with a badge.

The video record shows Humphreys et al strutting around like they had just arrested Osama bin Laden, while James Chasse, who had committed no crime, misdemeanor or infraction, was in the act of dying from his injuries and from medical neglect following this horrific beating.  A quick check of the alleged "crime" scene might have turned up a wet spot, and might have turned up nothing...ah, but the thrill of the chase...the refreshing crack of ribs breaking, a "lesson" soundly delivered...should end that rocking back and forth in public once and for all...a dozen extra knee drops just to drive home the point...this boy's gonna remember this for the rest of his life....

This is a case that will never be forgotten; a case about a person who was loved by many and feared by no one; a person who for years suffered a severe illness in plain sight and threatened no one.

Then one day comes a thrill-seeking thug with a badge....

- Sean Cruz