Dawson v. Brown

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Officer Stirmell followed a speeding pickup truck and activated his sirens. The driver, Greg, ignored the sirens and continued driving. Stirmell radioed for assistance. Greg drove to his father’s house, ran from his truck, and jumped the fence into his father’s backyard. Stirmell ceased pursuit and began searching Greg’s truck. Springfield Officers Brown, Warnisher, and others arrived and searched the backyard. The officers knew Greg had refused to stop, but were also under the mistaken impression that Greg had an outstanding arrest warrant. Greg’s father, Dawson, went out and, at an officer’s request, called Greg’s cell phone to locate him. Greg did not answer. Dawson remained outside and answered the officers’ questions. He stated that he was 72 years old, and that his son had no involvement in drug dealing. Greg re-appeared, running toward the side door of Dawson’s house. Dawson claims that while the officers were attempting to subdue Greg, Warnisher kicked Dawson and Brown tackled Dawson from behind. The officers dispute his version of events. Dawson was handcuffed and arrested for resisting arrest and obstruction, but was never formally charged. The Seventh Circuit affirmed summary judgment, rejecting Dawson’s claims under 42 U.S.C. 1983, finding that the officers acted reasonably under the circumstances. View "Dawson v. Brown" on Justia Law