A Portland police officer has released a video apology for striking a photographer with a baton during the 2020 George Floyd protests. Officer Corey Budworth expressed remorse for hitting Teri Jacobs, an independent photographer, on August 18, 2020. The incident, captured on video, showed Budworth striking Jacobs in the head, knocking her down, and striking her again while she was on the ground.

Last week, prosecutors dismissed a misdemeanor assault charge against Budworth. He participated in a restorative justice process with Jacobs, acknowledging that the force used was avoidable and expressing regret for the broader impact on the community's trust in law enforcement. Budworth stated his commitment to fostering positive change within the police bureau.

At the time of the incident, Budworth was part of the Portland Police Bureau’s Rapid Response Team. The charges filed against him in June 2021 led to the entire team's resignation. Jacobs filed a civil rights lawsuit against the city, which was settled for $50,000. In a statement, Jacobs expressed gratitude for the opportunity to communicate the impact of Budworth's actions through the restorative justice process.

Budworth, who has been on administrative leave since June 2021, is expected to return to duty. The Portland Police Bureau will now resume an internal affairs investigation. Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schmidt called the case a "turning point," highlighting the potential for healing through dialogue and understanding between law enforcement and the community.