Jackson, Tenn. — A lawsuit has been filed against Henry County’s law enforcement, accusing staff of wrongful actions in the death of Daniel Russell during a traffic stop on April 20, 2024. The legal action, initiated by he family’s attorney, Christopher Smith, claims that officers from both the Henry County Sheriff’s Office and the Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency contributed to Russell’s death through negligent handling and use of excessive force, thereby violating his constitutional rights under the 4th and 14th amendments.
Russell, referred to affectionately as “Danny” by family and friends, was reportedly pulled over for erratic driving. During the incident, it is alleged that the officers employed unnecessary force and failed in their duty to ensure Russell could breathe properly, thus leading to his fatal “positional asphyxia.” The concept typically describes a form of asphyxiation which occurs when someone’s position prevents them from breathing adequately.
The officers named in the lawsuit include Henry County Deputy Sheriff Frankie Scott, Sergeant Blake Jenkins, and Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency Officers John Dunn and Miranda Garner. The complaint articulates that the officers did not take adequate care to prevent the compression of Russell’s back, a factor that was later highlighted in the autopsy report as contributing to his death.
Further, the lawsuit claims that law enforcement used excessive force by deploying a taser multiple times, employing a stun drive, and using pepper spray. The legal document also notes that Russell attempted to inform the officers of his heart condition, as shown in footage captured by the officers’ body cameras.
Significant evidence that supports the family’s claims, such as the autopsy report and the body camera footage, was only obtained after prolonged requests for public records, a process that the lawyer describes as arduous and lengthy. This delayed access to crucial information appears central to the Russell family’s grievances and their pursuit of justice.
Tragically, Russell’s death leaves behind a minor child, who is represented in the lawsuit by her grandfather. The family is described as devastated by the loss, facing the challenge of raising a child without her father.
As of now, the Henry County Sheriff’s Office has indicated that they were unaware of the lawsuit and therefore have not provided any comments on the matter.
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