Gerald Johnson
In March 2020, 55-year-old Gerald Johnson was shot and killed by police officers in Fresno, California.
It is reported that the police received a call about a man who threatened his family. At the scene they found Johnson. He locked himself in his car.
After several hours of negotiations, the police decided to remove Johnson from the car and arrest him. As soon as they took a few steps towards the car, they saw that Johnson began to look for something in the car. Officers allegedly thought that Johnson may have had a firearm. The deputies immediately opened fire on him. Johnson died at the scene from his injuries.
The Johnson’s family sued the city and the police department, accusing them of using excessive force. The trial in this case is scheduled for January 2023.
MASS MEDIA ABOUT THE CASE:
“They had plenty of time to de-escalate, to try and reason with him,” says attorney Stuart Chandler.
CASE STATUS:
The initiative group has requested the clarification from US President Joseph Biden and Attorney General Merrick Garland. The initiative group believes it is important to fight against police violence and, if necessary, will provide legal and financial assistance to the family of the victim.
Letter to Biden
Letter to Garland
