California suspects arrested after brawling with Target employees

Two men in California were arrested for not wearing masks during the coronavirus pandemic, according to police Monday, after brawling and breaking the arm of a Target employee who challenged them.

Phillip Hamilton, 31, and Paul Hamilton, 29, joined a convenience store in Los Angeles at about 10:20 am. On May 1, police said, without masks on. Video of the incident allegedly shows employees escorting them after they refused to wear the protective gear.

“As they approached the exit, one suspect, suddenly without provocation, turned and punched a store employee, causing him and the suspect to fall to the floor,” according to the Los Angeles Police Department. “While on the ground, the store employee broke his left arm. A fight erupted between the two suspects and store employees.”

The other was reportedly seen using his elbows after hitting the first security guard to attack another employee who caught him in a bear hug, causing them both to collapse to the ground.

The injured shop employee was taken by ambulance to a nearby hospital where he was treated for his injury, police said. Target issued a statement Monday to CBSLA.

“An unfortunate altercation occurred following a request from our team members that two guests at our Van Nuys store comply with the city order to wear face coverings while shopping,” the company said. “We’re grateful for the support of local police and we’ll provide any information that can be helpful to their investigation.”

The two suspects had been arrested for felony battery the same day, police said. Their bail was set at $50,000 bail but, according to prison records, they were released from custody on May 5th.
Mayor Eric Garcetti, of Los Angeles, issued an emergency order in April requiring workers who provide essential non-medical services and to wear face coverings while at work.

“We need to protect every worker on the front lines of this crisis,” Garcetti said. “Each one of us is a first responder in this emergency. Every employer should keep employees safe, and so should Angelenos patronizing these businesses. Cover up. Keep your distance. Save lives. It’s that simple.”

Los Angeles County authorities released a similar order. It came into force April 15.