Arizona State cheerleader charged after confrontation with police caught on viral video, tell me about this news today

Eryn Kelise Bonner, a 21-year-old senior and stunt team/cheer member at Arizona State University, has been formally charged with two misdemeanors following a viral confrontation with Tempe police officers.

The Incident The altercation occurred along the Mill Avenue corridor in Tempe, Arizona, after bicycle patrol officers attempted to detain an individual. Viral bystander clips and police body camera footage captured Bonner approaching the scene, screaming, and interfering with the arrest.

During the scuffle, an officer shoved her backward onto a bicycle, fell over her, and struck her repeatedly in the face to subdue her before placing her in handcuffs. The incident left Bonner with visible facial bruising and triggered backlash online regarding police use of force.

Charges & Legal Proceedings

• County prosecutors reviewed the case and declined felony charges.

• The case moved to Tempe Municipal Court, where Bonner was formally charged with misdemeanor disorderly conduct and hindering or interfering with police officers.

Both Sides of the Dispute

• Police Department: The department stated that Bonner repeatedly inserted herself into a chaotic arrest scene, refused orders to back away, and struck an officer multiple times in the face, prompting the officer to strike back to gain control. The Tempe Police Department confirmed that the incident and the officers’ actions are subject to an internal review.

• Defense & Family: Bonner’s attorney, Benjamin Taylor, described the officer’s reaction as excessive and unnecessary force, calling for the officer involved to be terminated. The defense contends that officers escalated the encounter, unnecessarily assaulted her, and alleged inappropriate physical contact occurred during the restraint.