An Australian police officer has been stood down after an incident in Perth where he appeared to hit an Indigenous teenager with his car in order to stop him from walking away.
Amateur video was released by NITV showing the incident, which happened over the weekend in the suburb of Thornlie.
A female police officer can be seen following the 18-year-old slowly on foot, before an unmarked police car cuts across his path, hitting him with such force he is thrown to the curb.
A dent is visible in the left fender of the vehicle following the impact.
The teen is then seen convulsing on the ground while the two police officers roll him over and handcuff him.
He was taken to Fiona Stanley Hospital following the incident.
Police released a statement saying the teen was being sought after being reported for suspicious behaviour, and that "a scuffle ensued where one officer was injured".
"The man fled on foot and was arrested a short time later on Wilfred Road after colliding with a police vehicle involved in the search," WA Police said in the statement provided to media.
West Australian Police Minister Michelle Roberts became involved after new, clear video of the incident emerged, and the officer has been stood down pending an investigation.
"On the face of it, it's very disturbing and appears to be quite unacceptable," Ms Roberts said.
"So the officers involved will be interviewed by professional standards and a full report done."
Family members of the 18-year-old are now calling for the officer - a senior sergeant - to face criminal charges.
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