The city of Greensboro is appealing a judge's ruling to release police body camera footage of a domestic incident involving City Manager Taiwo Jaiyeoba.
A police report in December said three family members including Jaiyeoba were victims of assault. A judge recently ruled body camera footage from the incident has to be released.
But Greensboro Mayor Nancy Vaughan said at a press conference Monday she was concerned the decision could discourage individuals from seeking assistance in future emergencies.
"The body-worn camera not only captures the distressing events but also invades the sanctity of a home, exposing vulnerable moments that could include minors and uninvolved individuals," Vaughan said. "It is an intrusive experience."
The city council released a statement in February after reviewing the video saying Jaiyeoba did not receive preferential treatment.
Police Chief John Thompson said evidence did not support probable cause which is necessary for an arrest.
"The city manager is not above the law, but he's also not beneath the law," he said.
Thompson said they're appealing the judge's decision to safeguard the privacy of the involved individuals, avoid exposure of sensitive information, and to protect the integrity of the investigative process.