Watch virtual press conference→
On June 28, 2025, Emancipate NC Organizer Dedan Waciuri and Attorney Dillon Sharpe held a virtual press conference to rally support for Anthony Drayton, who was violently assaulted by Greenville police earlier this year.
On February 24, 2025, Mr. Drayton—a Black man navigating mental health challenges—was brutally attacked inside a McDonald’s in Greenville. Instead of receiving care or protection, he was arrested and charged. Though he calmly tried to leave as requested, Officer C. Stokes escalated the situation. Despite Mr. Drayton never striking the officer, Stokes slammed him into a booth, kicked him, and pulled out a nightstick.
When additional officers arrived, Mr. Drayton—compliant and face down—was subjected to even more violence. Most egregiously, Officer Jennifer Umphlet struck Mr. Drayton three times in the back of the head with steel handcuffs, inflicting severe and unnecessary harm while Mr. Drayton posed no threat.
Now, instead of the officers facing consequences, Mr. Drayton stands charged with misdemeanors: Assault on a Government Official and Resisting a Public Officer. These charges are an insult to the trauma he endured—and they must be dropped.
Attorney Dillon Sharpe, who represents Mr. Drayton, has successfully secured the police body camera footage, although it is not yet available for public release. Meanwhile, civilian video from the scene already exposes the truth—contrary to the Greenville Police Department’s dangerous and false narrative.
At the press conference, Dillon shared updates on the legal fight, and Dedan provided a revolutionary analysis of how incidents like this reflect broader patterns of state violence—and how our communities can resist.
Take Action for Anthony Drayton:
📣 Call now and demand justice:
- Drop the charges – Pitt County DA Faris Dixon: 252-695-7200
- Fire the officers – Greenville NC Town Council: 864-232-2273
- Hold police accountable – Chief of Police: 252-329-2489
Stand up. Speak out. Make the call.