The family of a 62-year-old man, who passed away after being Tased for refusing to sign a traffic ticket, has filed a lawsuit against the city of Atlanta. The legal action also targets Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum and former officer Kiran Kimbrough, the one who deployed the Taser. The lawsuit contends that all three defendants bear responsibility for Johnny Hollman Sr.’s wrongful death, with specific allegations against Kimbrough for using excessive force.
The family seeks to hold both the officer and the city accountable for violating Hollman’s civil rights. This lawsuit is the family’s second; the first, filed in DeKalb County State Court, targeted a tow truck driver and his employer involved in the incident.
The body camera footage from the August incident depicts Hollman becoming upset as Kimbrough informs him about the citation for causing an accident. The situation escalates when Hollman refuses to sign the ticket, leading to Kimbrough taking him to the ground in an attempt to handcuff him. The officer deploys the Taser multiple times while Hollman protests that he can’t breathe. Hollman eventually loses consciousness and dies.
Following the incident, the Atlanta Police Department terminated Kimbrough, and the city announced that citizens are no longer required to sign citations. Kimbrough is appealing his termination, denying any wrongdoing or policy violations.
The family, seeking justice, emphasizes the impact on their peace of mind, joy, and happiness. In response to the lawsuit, Mayor Andre Dickens’ office issued a statement expressing sympathy for the Hollman family. The mayor had initiated a comprehensive review of standard operating procedures (SOPs) and training curriculum after the incident, leading to changes such as revising procedures for traffic citations and launching a civilian response unit to handle low-risk calls. Additionally, new policy guidelines were developed in collaboration with relevant authorities for the public release of video evidence involving the use of force by Atlanta police officers.
If you’re family member or a loved one has been the victim of a wrongful death, please call us asap so that we may gather evidence.Â
Call For a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one suffered serious injury in an Atlanta accident, the dedicated personal injury attorneys at Humphrey & Ballard Law can help. Our experienced legal team has been fighting for injured victims in Atlanta for over 20 years – and we know how to maximize compensation for your injuries and losses.
Don’t wait to call us at 404-341-0499 for a free, no-obligation consultation on your case. At Humphrey & Ballard Law, we handle all types of personal injury claims, including:
With convenient offices in Lenox Center Tower, we make it simple to meet our attorneys face-to-face. We’ll review the details of your case at no cost, advise if you have grounds to pursue a claim, and discuss your legal options moving forward.
At Humphrey & Ballard Law, every client matters. Our No Fee Guarantee means we only get paid if we win money for you. We won’t rest until you receive maximum compensation. All it takes is one call to 404-341-0499 to get started. You can also visit us online at https://hbinjurylawyers.com/Contact/ to request your free case evaluation today.
Don’t leave your family’s future to chance. The dedicated Atlanta personal injury lawyers at Humphrey & Ballard Law will fight for you. Call 404-341-0499 now to schedule a free consultation. Let us help you get the compensation you deserve after your accident in Georgia.
