Vancouver police are investigating a disturbing incident caught on video in which two men were kicked in the groin for money, as dozens of witnesses looked on and laughed.
The video was recorded over the weekend on Granville St., which was busy with weekend revellers.
The recording shows a heavyset man repeatedly yelling at another man, asking if he “wants the f----- money.” The man says, “I do” a few times before being kicked hard in the groin.
Another man then steps forward asking to be kicked in exchange for money, but steps back when the man moves to kick him. The alleged assailant continues to yell profanities at the second man, kicks him in the groin, demands his money back and then chases him down the street.
All the while some onlookers laugh, while others use their cellphones to record the incident.
In a statement issued Thursday afternoon, Vancouver Police said they have identified both men who were kicked in the video. As well, “the man believed to be responsible contacted police and is co-operating with the investigation,” police said.
Police have assigned an investigative team to review the case, and are looking for more witnesses to come forward, particularly if they have video of the event.
“Taking advantage of another person with the promise of money to compensate them for injury is distasteful and extremely concerning,” the statement read.
“Although a person does have the right to consent to being hit, the actions leading up to and following the kick are being investigated as a criminal offence.”
Police have yet to confirm reports that the two men who were kicked are homeless. However, homeless advocates issued a statement, calling the incident “a horrible affront to human dignity,” reported CTV British Columbia’s Nafeesa Karim.
