Brentwood Police Release Bodycam Footage After 72-Year-Old's In-Custody Death

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The Brentwood Police Department has released body camera footage from the 2025 arrest of 72-year-old Yolanda Ramirez, whose family claims she died as a result of the encounter. The video shows officers attempting to take Ramirez into custody during a domestic dispute, with Ramirez appearing to fall and hit her head on a patrol car as they try to seat her inside. Ramirez died seven days later, and her family has filed a federal civil rights lawsuit against the city and several officers, alleging serious injuries and evidence of asphyxiation found in an independent autopsy.

Why it matters

The case has raised concerns about police use of force and in-custody deaths, particularly involving elderly individuals. The release of the bodycam footage comes after a rally calling for transparency, underscoring the ongoing public scrutiny of law enforcement actions and the need for accountability.

The details

The bodycam video shows officers responding to a call from Ramirez's sister, who had contacted 911. Ramirez is seen speaking with an officer, refusing to provide her date of birth, and then attempting to leave the scene. The officers then move to arrest Ramirez, with one officer discussing a possible citizen's arrest with the sister. As they guide Ramirez toward the patrol car, she appears to fall and hit her head. Once inside the vehicle, Ramirez extends her leg to prevent the door from closing, and at one point, she appears to maneuver her handcuffed hands. Minutes later, when Ramirez appears to have difficulty breathing, officers attempt to sit her upright and remove her handcuffs before calling paramedics.

• The incident occurred on September 26, 2025.
• Ramirez died seven days later, on October 3, 2025.

What’s next

The Brentwood Police Department has declined to comment further, citing the pending litigation and ongoing investigation. The family's federal civil rights lawsuit against the city and several officers is expected to proceed.