Omaha Mayor John Ewing and Police Chief Todd Schmaderer on Sunday issued a joint statement concerning a traffic stop involving Omaha boxing champion Terence “Bud” Crawford. Both men have ordered a review of the traffic stop and says they are aware of a video circulating on social media regarding a traffic stop early Sunday morning.
Chief Schmaderer has authorized an internal affairs investigation. Shortly before 1:30 a.m., officers working in the downtown area observed a vehicle driving recklessly near North 12th and Capitol Avenue. Schmaderer says a traffic stop was conducted at Cass Street.
While speaking with the driver, Schmaderer says an officer observed a firearm on the driver’s side floorboard. For safety, all four occupants were ordered out of the vehicle at gunpoint. Schmaderer says the driver was later identified as Crawford upon verification of his driver’s license and was issued a citation for reckless driving.
OPD says one passenger, a member of Mr. Crawford’s security team, was also found to be carrying a legal firearm. Police have confirmed that all occupants are legally permitted to carry firearms. A police supervisor and lieutenant responded to the scene at Mr. Crawford’s request.
“I learned Omaha police pulled over Terence “Bud” Crawford on a traffic stop downtown early this morning,” Ewing says. “After learning of this, I spoke personally to Bud Crawford. I acknowledge the seriousness of what occurred and how trust between law enforcement and our community is important and shows the need to be continuously vigilant about building relationships.”
Ewing says they will gather all the facts and be transparent with the public about their findings. “Understand that my heart dropped in learning of this end to an otherwise wonderful day and evening celebrating our city’s world boxing champion,” Ewing said in a statement. “We held a great parade and great event at Heartland of America park. “The evening birthday party at Steelhouse, which I and members of my team attended, was a showing of joy and pride. Omaha needs to remember this important day as a good one while we seek answers to how it ended.”