County

Family Sues Cumberland County Jail After Man’s Fatal Overdose, Alleges Neglect in Medical Care and Supervision

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PORTLAND, Maine — A lawsuit has been filed by the family of a man who died from a fentanyl overdose while detained at Cumberland County Jail, alleging wrongful death due to negligence by the jail’s staff and medical contractors. The suit, lodged in U.S. District Court in Portland, contends that James Mannion of Wells did not receive necessary medical intervention for his withdrawal symptoms, directly contributing to his death in August 2022. Mannion, who had been in custody for seven months on charges including alleged drug possession, succumbed to fentanyl poisoning. The distressing incident was … Read more

Florida Woman Sues Pasco County Over Alleged Disability Discrimination in Building Code Dispute

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Pasco County, FL — More than half a year has passed since Danielle Atherton-Bonner first voiced her concerns, and now, the Florida resident has taken legal action. Atherton-Bonner has filed a lawsuit against Pasco County, citing discrimination based on disability. This legal battle stems from a contentious requirement by the county for her to install a costly fire sprinkler system in her home, a mandate they defend as a safety precaution. Atherton-Bonner, who uses a wheelchair for mobility, claims that the county’s insistence on the installation of the sprinkler system in her single-family home does … Read more

$100 Million Verdict Challenged: Erie County and Deputies Dispute Excessive Force Award in Inmate’s 2012 Death

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Buffalo, NY — Attorneys representing Erie County and several deputies from the Holding Center are contesting a $100 million jury verdict awarded for the 2012 death of inmate Richard Metcalf Jr. The legal team has cited procedural mishaps and a judicial censure as key elements influencing their challenge. The monumental verdict was handed down in April following allegations of excessive use of force that allegedly led to Metcalf’s death. Metcalf died on November 30, 2012, two days after deputies reportedly forcibly removed him from his cell, using restraint techniques that included a spit mask tied … Read more

Former Telecommunications Officer Files Lawsuit Against Panola County Sheriff, Alleging Political Retaliation and Gender Discrimination

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Carthage, Texas — A second lawsuit has recently been lodged against Panola County Sheriff Cutter Clinton, deepening the controversy surrounding his office. The legal action asserts wrongful termination linked to political allegiances and puts a spotlight on the challenges of maintaining free speech within local law enforcement agencies. Former telecommunications officer Staci Benedetti, who served from August 2019 until her dismissal on May 2, 2024, filed the lawsuit, claiming her termination was due to her support for Jeff Martin, a rival candidate in the March sheriff’s election. This case marks the second such allegation against … Read more