Did Durham police have the right to arrest teen for swearing?

Is swearing an arrestable offence?

That question is being raised after a video surfaced on social media showing Durham regional police arresting two 16-year-old boys on May 15 in the Taunton and Thickson roads area of Whitby.

The video shows two officers trying to restrain the first teen, with one officer punching him several times in the back as he appears to struggle and resist.

Police say they had earlier received a call about a distraught male in the area, possibly armed with a knife.

On Monday, police addressed the arresting officers’ conduct, saying they were following protocol.

But the questions don’t end there. During the video several teens surround police, asking them why they are hitting their friend, and requesting their badge numbers.

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