INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — A pastor said a videotape of officers kicking a burglary suspect following a brief chase early Tuesday is likely to damage police efforts to improve relations with the community.

A WTHR-TV helicopter camera shot footage of officers kicking Felipe Alvarado, 26, of Indianapolis at least five times as he lie on the ground. One blow appeared to strike Alvarado's head while his arms were pinned behind his back. Police said the officers' actions appeared to be justified.

"The kicks are beyond reasonable force," said the Rev. David W. Greene of Second Baptist Church on the city's north side. "I'm questioning the mentality of police officers. Do they believe they are above the law?"

Greene said many inner-city residents, especially blacks, have a deep distrust for police despite department efforts to build bridges within the community.

Police spokesman Sgt. Matthew Mount said the officers were justified in kicking the suspect who had led them on a 10-minute pursuit and continued to resist arrest. The man resisted even after being shot with a Taser and appeared to be reaching for a knife.

The chase began about 6:45 a.m. on the city's east side when witnesses told officers a man who had broken into several vehicles was fleeing the area.

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Information from: The Indianapolis Star, http://www.indystar.com