Oakland Police withhold Doug Martin death video, sparking outrage

UPDATE: The Oakland Police Department (OPD) has just announced that it will not release body-camera footage related to the death of former NFL running back Doug Martin, igniting a firestorm of criticism over transparency in law enforcement.

Authorities reported that Martin, 36, died in police custody following a “brief struggle” on October 18, 2023. Despite multiple 911 calls about Martin’s erratic behavior—banging on doors and wandering through backyards in the Oakland hills—the OPD claims the incident does not qualify as a “critical incident” under state law, which would require them to disclose video evidence.

In a statement released on Tuesday, OPD cited AB 748, a law intended to enhance police accountability, stating,

“At this time, the City has determined that the incident does not meet the definition of a ‘critical incident.’”

This refusal to release footage comes despite growing demands from First Amendment advocates and the public, who argue that transparency is crucial for accountability. David Loy, legal director of the First Amendment Coalition, emphasized the need for public access to information about police actions:

“Transparency is the oxygen of accountability.”

Just hours before the fatal incident, police received simultaneous reports of a burglary and a medical emergency involving Martin. Initial findings suggest he was found inside a neighbor’s home shortly after 4 a.m.. Details remain scarce regarding the struggle with officers and the circumstances leading to his loss of consciousness.

The Alameda County Coroner’s Office is currently conducting an autopsy. Martin’s brain will be preserved for analysis by neurologists for chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a condition linked to brain injuries sustained by many former NFL players. Martin’s family is preparing for a memorial service set for Thursday but has declined to comment on the situation.

Martin, who was known for his explosive playing style, faced a tumultuous career that included injuries and substance abuse issues. He was a star at Boise State and later played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Oakland Raiders. Despite his challenges, he earned recognition as a Pro Bowler and was affectionately nicknamed “Muscle Hamster.”

The OPD has faced scrutiny over its transparency policies, especially following a controversial decision to encrypt police radio channels just days before Martin’s death. This move has limited public access to critical information regarding police actions and responses in the city.

Civil rights attorney Jim Chanin expressed concern over OPD’s decision not to release the body-camera footage, stating,

“When in doubt, release it.”

Chanin argued that if officers operated within departmental policies, the footage could clarify the incident for the public.

As the situation continues to develop, the calls for accountability and transparency from law enforcement are growing louder. The community and advocates alike are demanding answers regarding the circumstances of Doug Martin’s tragic death.

Stay tuned for further updates as this story unfolds.