Family of elderly man killed by Detroit police files $50M lawsuit

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In a tragic incident that has sparked outrage and calls for justice, the family of Daryl Vance, a 70-year-old man who died after being punched by a Detroit police officer, has filed a federal lawsuit against the former officer and the city of Detroit. The lawsuit, seeking $50 million in damages for alleged civil rights violations, sheds light on yet another case of police brutality and misconduct in the United States.

The lawsuit, filed on behalf of Vance’s family, names former Detroit police officer Juwan Brown, the city of Detroit, and Detroit Police Sgt. Jarmiare McEntire as defendants. According to prosecutors, Brown punched Vance during a confrontation outside a bowling alley on September 1, 2023, in response to a call about a disorderly person. Vance tragically fell to the ground, hitting his head, and passed away three weeks later in a hospital. The Wayne County medical examiner’s office concluded that Vance's death resulted from blunt force trauma to his head caused by the punch.

The lawsuit, spearheaded by attorney James Harrington, condemns the actions of former Officer Brown as "reckless and malicious police brutality." Brown was subsequently terminated from the Detroit Police Department. In addition to Brown, the lawsuit also alleges that Sgt. McEntire violated Vance’s civil rights by conducting an illegal search of his apartment without a warrant the day after the assault.

Detroit Corporation Counsel Conrad Mallett declined to comment on the lawsuit, citing the city's policy regarding ongoing litigation. Attempts to reach Brown’s attorney, Steve Fishman, for comment were unsuccessful. Notably, Brown, aged 29, faced charges of manslaughter in connection with Vance’s death but had those charges dismissed in January due to insufficient evidence. However, Wayne County prosecutors have since appealed the judge’s ruling, signaling a continued legal battle for justice.

The lawsuit filed by the family of Daryl Vance underscores the persistent issue of police brutality and misconduct in the United States. It serves as a reminder of the urgent need for accountability and reform within law enforcement agencies to prevent such tragic incidents from occurring in the future. As the legal proceedings unfold, many will be closely watching, hoping for justice to be served in this heartbreaking case.