[Biggirl]

The problem was that Mr. Gardner was the subject of complaints coming from the small busineses in the area he was in.

[Kaslin]

That is correct. They complained because he sold untaxed lose cigarettes which is against the law.

[bert]

His people of color have been shouting what to do but Mr Gardner didn't understand the message......

I surrender

[Nifster]

And please let us not forget that there was a sergeant there who was directing officers as to what to do....SHE is an African American

[elpadre]

The problem was also that Gardner resisted arrest. With his lengthy arrest record he should have known the police could not turn their back on him, they had no choice. The arrest had to be made. The choke hold or full nelson are approved methods of subduing anyone resisting arrest.