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
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