Ohio Police Settle Excessive Force Lawsuit After Woman Thrown to Floor

Excessive Force Lawsuit Settlement in Ohio

• ⚖️ Jennifer Miller settled a federal lawsuit against Brookfield, Ohio police for excessive force during her arrest.
• 💥 Miller was arrested for OVI and, when refusing to enter a cell, was thrown to the floor by Officer Cody Dean, resulting in her being knocked unconscious.
• 💰 Originally seeking $1 million in damages, Miller cited physical injuries, emotional distress, and legal/medical expenses.
• 🏛️ The lawsuit also claimed Brookfield Township failed to properly train officers on arrest procedures and use of force.

Internal Investigation and Legal Precedents

• 🔍 An internal police investigation cleared Officer Dean, attributing the fall to Miller's intoxication, resistance, and footwear, along with the officer's action.
• ⚠️ Legal experts noted that police are generally not allowed to use force to take a suspect to the ground unless they pose an imminent physical threat.
• 🗣️ Court rulings indicate that refusing an officer's instruction to enter a cell or vehicle does not justify physical force.

Police Response and Policy Changes

• 🤷 Chief Aaron Kasowitz acknowledged Officer Dean may not have handled the prisoner with due care, calling the incident a