Police Officer broke woman's humerus bone by forcibly handcuffing her arm backwards

 

 In a deeply disturbing incident on October 30, 2023, Nathalia Granada, a vulnerable individual seeking asylum in the United States, was subjected to excessive force by BSO Officer Helmut Murillo, resulting in a broken humerus bone during a mental health crisis. 

 Nathalia, diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder and Schizophrenia, was driven to Woodmont Hospital by her cousin and sponsor for immigration, Alex, seeking urgent mental health assistance. 

However, what should have been an empathetic response turned into a nightmare as Officer Murillo mishandled the situation. 

 Instead of following the proper handcuffing procedure, by making sure Nathalia's left palm was up, with the back of her hand against her back, as the Officer placing the handcuff on Nathalia's right arm did, Tamarac BSO Officer Helmut Murillo forcibly shoved Nathalia's left arm down backwards, snapping the bone, and requiring Nathalia to undergo surgery to have her bone pinned back together. 

 The incident unfolded when Nathalia, fearful and already in a state of acute mental health distress, refused to exit her own vehicle upon arriving at the hospital. Instead of responding with compassion, Officer Murillo forcibly yanked her from the vehicle, threw her to the ground, and improperly handcuffed her, resulting in a broken humerus bone in her arm- treating her like a criminal. 

The police report provided by Officer Murillo attempts to rationalize his actions by citing Nathalia's incoherent speech and suggesting a potential threat, despite acknowledging her mental health condition. 

Officer Murillo illogically claims he needed to remove Nathalia from her vehicle, due to his fear she might drive off, while also stating Nathalia moved over into the passenger’s seat to get away from him. 

 This narrative fails to justify the unnecessary and aggressive use of force that led to severe injury. Nathalia's cousin, Alex, who witnessed the incident, contends that Officer Murillo displayed a lack of professionalism and heightened aggression, exacerbating the already delicate situation. 

Nathalia, a survivor of police violence in her home country, sought asylum in the United States only to face further abuse from those entrusted with her safety. 

To address this grave misconduct and seek justice for Nathalia, she has chosen to make this incident public, urging the Broward County Sheriff's Office to enhance its officer training programs. 

The incident underscores the need for improved handling of individuals experiencing mental health crises and calls for a thorough investigation into Officer Murillo's actions. Nathalia underwent surgery to repair her broken arm and now faces continuous pain, anxiety, insomnia, an intense fear of all police officers, and potential long-term complications. 

This incident raises questions about the duty of care provided by law enforcement to vulnerable individuals. The Broward County Sheriff's Office and Officer Helmut Murillo are now under scrutiny for their role in this incident. Nathalia is considering her legal options for this egregious violation of her civil rights.