Born with cerebral palsy and intellectual disabilities, Michael, lives a quiet life with his grandmother and caretaker. Michael enjoyed a daily routine that included taking the bus to run errands or visit the library. While waiting at the bus stop, Michael became nervous when he noticed a police officer staring at him from across the street. He decided to go back home. Without provocation, the officer began shouting and running after him, chasing him back to his apartment. Once there, the officer threw Michael down the stairs where he struck and tased him. Terrified, Michael managed to get away and hide in his bathroom. Michael was just trying to protect himself but never attempted to strike or threaten the officer. Meanwhile, Michael’s grandmother and neighbors tried to explain to the officer that Michael has a disability and is not a threat to anyone. As this was unfolding, at least 29 police vehicles from multiple local law enforcement agencies arrived on the scene.

Without a warrant, eventually the officers slipped past Michael’s grandmother and into the apartment. When they found Michael, they began shouting at him and beating him. Michael was handcuffed and put into an ambulance. The hospital treated Michael for the physical injuries he suffered and released him back into police custody. Upon release the following day, no attempt was made to reach his caretaker and no steps were made to provide for his safety. He did not know how to get home and was forced to wander outside until a family member found him, confused and scared.

In partnership with Jones Day, the Committee has worked to hold the police accountable for this unprovoked attack, lawless raid, and unwarranted arrest. This incident was part of a pattern of excessive force and unconstitutional policing practices on the part of law enforcement officers in Prince George’s County and the District of Columbia. Their actions also reflected a deliberate attempt to ignore Michael’s disabilities, which required accommodations. We have won significant damages from Prince George’s County to help Michael with the trauma.