Video: Miami football player struck by officer during arrest; Oxford police investigate

Miami University student Devin Johnson was struck by a police officer outside a bar. The officer is on leave pending investigation.

A TikTok video has been making the rounds, showing an Oxford police officer striking Miami University student Devin Johnson outside Brick Street Bar around 1:30 a.m. on November 18. The video, posted by someone claiming to be a relative of Johnson, has sparked concern in the community and prompted the police department to open a use of force investigation. Officer Mathew Blauvelt has been placed on administrative leave while the investigation is ongoing.

The video does not provide context for the incident, but according to court documents, Johnson allegedly entered the bar through a side entrance against the staff's wishes and then assaulted them when confronted. This led to a fight outside the bar, where the TikTok video begins. Brick Street Bar has declined to comment on the matter.

After his arrest, Johnson was charged with assault, resisting arrest, criminal trespassing, and underage possession of alcohol. He is scheduled to appear in court on January 25, and his lawyer has not yet responded to requests for comment. Miami University has reached out to Johnson to offer support.

Oxford Mayor William Snavely emphasized that the city council and administration are taking the incident seriously and are committed to transparency and fairness. Police conduct is expected to be a topic of discussion at the next council meeting on January 16. The police department is asking for anyone with additional footage of the arrest or those who were present at the time to contact them via email at [email protected].

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