San Bernardino Police Accused of Brutality Against Teen

A shocking incident involving the San Bernardino Police Department has ignited outrage after a viral video appeared to show officers using excessive force against a teenage girl. The lawsuit filed by 18-year-old Erin Cowser alleges that Officer Jackson Tubbs, with Officer Cynthia Guillen present, violently slammed her face-first onto the pavement while she was already handcuffed.

An Escalation, Not an Intervention

The situation, which occurred in May 2025 outside a Food 4 Less, is particularly egregious because Cowser was reportedly not committing a crime. According to the lawsuit, she had just been attacked by a group of teenagers and was walking away when the officers arrived. Instead of de-escalating or offering assistance, the officers allegedly grabbed her from behind and threw her to the ground with such force that she suffered a concussion, memory loss, and multiple facial injuries.

Cowser claims she was never informed she was under arrest, received no commands, and posed no threat to the officers. Witnesses at the scene reportedly corroborated her account, attempting to inform the officers that Cowser was the victim of an assault. Despite this, the lawsuit alleges the officers proceeded with the forceful takedown.

Allegations of a Cover-Up

The lawsuit further alleges a disturbing cover-up attempt by the officers involved. Instead of admitting their mistake, Tubbs and Guillen reportedly lied about the incident, claiming Cowser’s injuries stemmed from the fight with other teens. This false narrative was allegedly shared with her family while she was hospitalized, even being captured on body-worn camera footage.

The department has issued a standard defense, stating the teen was resisting arrest and the takedown was justified. However, Cowser’s attorney argues this explanation is unconvincing when weighed against the video evidence and the severity of her injuries. The lawsuit also points to a failure by the officers to provide immediate medical care.

Seeking Justice

Cowser’s attorney has accused the department of not only brutality but also of actively refusing to correct false statements, even after contradictory evidence emerged. The legal team hopes for a significant settlement to hold the department accountable for its alleged actions and to deter future misconduct. This case highlights the critical need for transparency and accountability within law enforcement.