The Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office is now investigating a disturbance at a south Wichita skating rink that led to the arrests of two teenagers and accusations of excessive force against two off-duty police officers who were providing security.
A 16-year-old boy and a 15-year-old girl were arrested on charges of assault and battery after the incident on New Year’s Eve at Roller City in the 3200 block of South Meridian. Some video of the incident was shared on social media and it led several community advocates to go to the City Council to call for the charges to be dropped.
The Wichita Police Department was investigating the incident, but the case has been turned over to the Sheriff’s Office to avoid any perceived conflict.
Mayor Brandon Whipple said at his weekly news briefing Thursday that there are several witnesses who have not provided statements to law enforcement officers. He said they have made comments on social media, but that is not part of the investigation. He said those witnesses need to contact law enforcement to provide information and help the investigation move forward.
Anyone who witnessed the incident is urged to contact the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office at 316-660-5300.
