Lt. Colonel Chris Eskew, who was the head of State Police internal affairs when Ronald Greene died in LSP custody, tells state lawmakers he saw no criminal activity when he watched the violent body camera video of Greene’s arrest. Baton Rouge Representative Denise Marcelle provided the line of questioning.
“What did you personally feel,” said Marcelle.
“I didn’t note any,” said Eskew.
“You didn’t note any criminal activities,” said Marcelle. “Didn’t you see the same videos we saw?”
“Yes ma’am,” said Eskew.
“And you didn’t note any criminal activities,” said Marcelle.
“No ma-am,” said Eskew.
Police body camera video shows Greene being repeatedly punched and tased after leading State Police on a high-speed chase in May of 2019. Other LSU officials have said the troopers who arrested Greene crossed the line, but Marcelle couldn’t believe Eskew didn’t hold that same opinion.
“You heard Mr. Greene constantly moaning and saying ‘Stop, I’m your brother, Don’t hurt me, I’m scared’ you heard that right,” said Marcelle. “I’m just trying to figure out what other actions you need to hear in order to make a determination. I don’t get it!”
Later on in the meeting, Eskew changed his answer. He explained he was reluctant to answer for fear it could harm the ongoing investigations into Greene’s death. Marcelle sees it as State Police officials trying to protect each other.
“There seems to be some brotherhood, protection of other people in State Police that other people don’t want to bring down,” said Marcelle.
No has yet to be charged in connection with Green’s death.
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