St. Paul police have photos of controversial arrest

ST. PAUL (AP) -- Photographs indicate police officers did nothing wrong when they arrested an 18-year-old man during a disturbance downtown, the city's police chief said.

St. Paul Police Chief William Finney said Wednesday the pictures came from a freelance photographer who was downtown July 14 when about 5,000 teen-agers walked through the area after a drill team competition at Rondo Days -- a celebration of St. Paul's African-American history and community.

About 300 got out of hand, Finney said, resulting in three arrests.

Among those arrested was Devonsha Thompson, whom witnesses said they saw police hitting with what appeared to be batons or large flashlights. Police reports don't indicate such weapons were used.

Police said Thompson, of Aurora, Ill., was subdued and placed in custody after he kicked a police car and charged at an officer. He was charged later with disorderly conduct and obstructing the legal process.

Thompson denied charging at the officer, and said an officer tackled and beat him.

Police spokesman Michael Jordan said the department was given a roll of film that depicts most of Thompson's arrest. He said the photographer, who wishes to remain anonymous, contacted police a few days after the arrest.

"There is nothing in the pictures to be ashamed about," Finney said while addressing the city council, which requested a report on the incident.

Jordan said Thompson, as of Wednesday afternoon, hadn't filed a complaint against the five officers involved in the arrest.