Many of us have wondered whether the person with the handicapped parking permit is really handicapped or just enjoying the perks of using one of the usually empty spaces close to the door. This same thought seems to occur fairly regularly to police when they come across a person in a wheelchair. After all, it’s so much cooler to roll around than walk.

In Rochester, New York, two cops were doing their important law enforcement duty of “clearing a corner,” when they came across a less than compliant 52-year-old Benny Warr. Good name, right? Warr was in a wheelchair, which naturally raise suspicions immediately.  According to the Democrat and Chronicle :

The incident occurred the evening of May 1 near Jefferson Avenue and Bartlett Street and involved 52-year-old Benny Warr. The video — taken by a bystander whose identity has not been confirmed — begins with Warr being physically taken to the ground from his motorized wheelchair but does not show what preceded the incident.

Police say the officers were clearing a corner, and that Warr was arrested for disorderly conduct and resisting arrest.

The word out of Rochester is that Warr was waiting for a bus when the officers ordered him to get lost. Warr was disinclined to do so, and let the officers know in appropriately unpleasant language. They did not react well.



Naturally, which is defined as there being a video so the Rochester Police Department can’t deny this happened or explain that Warr made a furtive gesture compelling the police to engage in a dynamic response for officer safety, an internal investigation is being pursued, according to Sgt. Justin Collins, and the cops hope that Warr will be a willing and compliant witness. Because, well, his experience with the Rochester police has gone so well up to now.

But one thing is clear. Warr needed the wheelchair. And as for any thoughts about whether those people parking taking the really cool handicapped spots are fakers, remember that not all disabilities are visible, and even if they are trying to beat the system, it won’t kill you to walk the extra 20 feet anyway. Don’t be a hater.

H/T Don Thompson