FBI Opens Investigation Into Possible Violation Of Kelly Thomas' Civil Rights
LOS ANGELES (CBS/AP) — After two Fullerton police officers were acquitted of killing a homeless man, the FBI says it will look at the evidence for possible further investigation.
FBI spokeswoman Laura Eimiller said in a statement Monday night that shortly after Kelly Thomas died in 2011, the FBI opened an investigation to see if his civil rights were violated.
Eimiller said now that the state trial has ended, federal investigators will examine the evidence and testimony to decide on further action.
On Monday, former Fullerton officer Manuel Ramos was acquitted of second-degree murder and involuntary manslaughter, and former Cpl. Jay Cicinelli was acquitted of involuntary manslaughter and excessive use of force. Charges will be dropped against a third officer, Joseph Wolfe, who was awaiting trial in the case.
Thomas' father Ron Thomas said after the verdict he hoped the Department of Justice would intervene.
COMPLETE COVERAGE: Kelly Thomas Beating Death
(TM and © Copyright 2014 CBS Local Media, a division of CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2014 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)