Man Files Excessive Force Lawsuit Against Denver Police, Claims Officers Broke His Nose & Ribs
DENVER (CBS4) - A man is suing the Denver Police Department for possible excessive force. Justin Lecheminant claims officers broke his nose and gave him a concussion on New Year's Day 2019.
In the lawsuit, Lecheminant included photos of the injuries he said he received from police. He claims officers beat and kicked him, causing a punctured eardrum and broken ribs.
Denver police said Lecheminant drove away from officers after he was pulled over for having a headlight out. In the lawsuit, Lecheminant claims he did not resist the officer who confronted him.
Four members of the Denver Police Department are named in the lawsuit: Det. Mark Duran, Sgt. Troy Sandoval, Cpl. Daniel Felkins and Officer Robert Blanc. The lawsuit alleges Officer Blanc told Lecheminant, "That's what you get for eluding."
The lawsuit states there is body camera footage of the arrest. Although police allege the suspect assaulted them, the District Attorney did not prosecute Lecheminant on assault charges.
Lecheminant was also charged with obstruction and felony eluding. A spokesperson for the Denver Police Department said they will not comment on pending litigation.