‘My stomach turned,’ NAACP Las Vegas leader calls for review after sergeant seen on video striking woman

LAS VEGAS – The NAACP Las Vegas Branch is once again standing firmly on the side of justice and accountability after disturbing video footage surfaced of a Henderson police sergeant striking a woman during an encounter last fall.

In an interview with 8 News Now Investigators, Branch President Quentin Savwoir expressed deep concern about the incident, emphasizing that the situation escalated far beyond what was necessary.

“When I saw that video, my stomach turned,” Savwoir said. “I’d like to think that whether you’re in uniform or not, anyone watching can agree—that situation went off the rails really quickly.”

The Incident

The incident occurred on October 26, 2024, near Morrell Park in Henderson, where officers responded to a call involving Nakeisha Kelly, 38. Body camera and bystander video showed Sgt. Scott Alward striking Kelly during the encounter, later pinning her to the ground with his knee.

Kelly, who stands 5’5” and weighs 105 lbs., told reporters she feared for her life as the officer put on gloves and forcefully restrained her. “I was scared,” she said, recalling the physical force used against her.

The City of Henderson confirmed Sgt. Alward is on administrative leave but declined to disclose details of any disciplinary measures, citing personnel privacy.

Legal and Departmental Review

Kelly pleaded no contest to two misdemeanor charges stemming from the incident but has since announced her intent to pursue legal action against the City of Henderson and the Henderson Police Department.

While the city confirmed that internal affairs conducted a review, it has not disclosed whether Alward faced disciplinary consequences. In response to inquiries, the Henderson Police Department stated only that it “takes every use of force seriously and follows its standard review protocol.”

NAACP Response

President Savwoir stressed the need for broader reforms:

“There definitely needs to be a comprehensive review of the officer’s training,” he said. “Training should ensure that situations like this do not escalate that far, that fast.”

The NAACP Las Vegas Branch will continue monitoring the case, engaging with community leaders, and advocating for police accountability. Our mission remains clear: to ensure that justice, fairness, and respect are extended to every member of our community.

📌 This story was originally reported by 8 News Now Investigators and featured the NAACP Las Vegas Branch’s response.