The Associated Press

LOUISVILLE - Metro Police are investigating claims by residents that a black man accused of trying to elude police was beaten by white officers as he tried to surrender.

Witnesses said the suspect, Stephawn E. Leonard, was thrown to the ground by an officer who they say planted a knee in his chest as Leonard tried to give up Monday night in the Smoketown neighborhood.

Another officer, according to witnesses, then kicked Leonard, hit him in the face with his radio and slammed his face into the ground.

Witness LaVerne Haynes and others contacted the Rev. Louis Coleman, a civil-rights activist who said Tuesday he will help them file a complaint with the police.

Police spokeswoman Helene Kramer said the officers involved are filing a report explaining their use of force. She said the investigation will be led by the officers' commander, Maj. Larry Watkins.