If a cop was observed being beat down and there were several bystanders observing but chose not to get involved, could charges be filed against them?

There are a few states where able-bodied citizens are required to come to the aid of a peace officer if requested to do so. It's a holdover from the days when the county sheriff could form a posse to pursue fugitives. IF you were in one of those states, and IF the officer asked you for help, and you refused, you could conceivably be charged. I think this would be a reach, though, and a prosecution would be difficult.

There have been some incidents where a cop was wrestling with a suspect and people gathered around to taunt the cop and egg on the suspect. These people can be charged with offenses ranging from inciting to riot to disturbing the peace.

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