Shocking Video Erupts: Police Chief Stands Firm on Mother’s Arrest During City Council Showdown

By Matthew Holloway |

Surprise Police Chief Benny Piña faces escalating criticism following the arrest of a mother who exercised her First Amendment rights. Rebekah Massie was apprehended during a city council meeting in August after vocally criticizing City Attorney Robert Wingo. The incident drew national attention, particularly after a video surfaced showing her being arrested in front of her 10-year-old daughter.

A week after Massie’s arrest, an internal police department video leaked, in which Piña addressed officers on how to handle encounters with what he termed “First Amendment auditors.” In this video, Piña controversially defended the arrest, stating, “What happened last week… resulted in what I think everybody in the world is calling an illegal arrest and a violation of someone’s First Amendment rights.”

Massie, supported by the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE), has since launched a lawsuit against the city. The backlash prompted the city council to revise the policies that led to her arrest. Critics expressed outrage over the incident, particularly due to the viral footage showing Massie being led away while her child cried.

Péna urged officers not to be fully transparent with First Amendment auditors and suggested that criticisms directed at him were orchestrated by “trolls and bots.” He later defended the actions of Officer Steve Shernicoff, the arresting officer, stating that proper protocols were followed, including the filing of a use of force report. “When something doesn’t look right, or something doesn’t look popular, that doesn’t mean it’s wrong,” he added.

The public outcry has also drawn attention from political figures, such as State Senator John Kavanaugh, who called for an investigation by the state Attorney General. Kavanaugh emphasized the importance of protecting public speech rights, urging that “members of the public deserve the opportunity to voice their opinions and concerns to city leaders.” He referenced Arizona statutes that ensure citizens can address public bodies during meetings.

As the situation evolves, AZ Free News has reached out to Massie’s representatives from FIRE for further comment. No response has been received at this time.

Matthew Holloway is a reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories, or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.