Investigation underway after video shows Colonial Beach Police officer hitting restrained man during traffic stop

WESTMORELAND COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- After a video began circulating on social media showing a restrained man being hit by a Colonial Beach Police officer during a traffic stop on Saturday, the officer has been placed on leave, and an investigation is underway.

According to a social media post the Colonial Beach Police Department, the preliminary investigation indicates that at 8:25 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 8, a Colonial Beach Police officer pulled over a vehicle and determined that the driver had multiple outstanding warrants.

Police said the driver repeatedly refused to get out of the vehicle after an officer's commands, and the situation escalated, "resulting in a physical struggle."

According to officials, a video of the encounter that shows one officer "striking" the driver, has been shared online.

That officer has reportedly been placed on administrative leave, pending the outcome of a Virginia State Police investigation that is currently underway.

The Colonial Beach Police Department said it will conduct an internal administrative review to determine if all policies, procedures and training standards were followed.

Colonial Beach Police will reportedly give the community further information as the investigation allows.

"Colonial Beach Police Department is committed to serving the Colonial Beach community with integrity, courage, honor and professionalism," said Colonial Beach Police Chief Les Parsons. "In furtherance of that, we are committed to full cooperation with the Virginia State Police to ensure a thorough and impartial investigation. If any actions are found to be inconsistent with our policies, procedures, or professional standards, they will be addressed appropriately. Our priority remains the safety, trust, and well-being of the Colonial Beach community."