Family of Randy Cox, man left paralyzed while in custody of New Haven Police, seeks $100 million in damages
NEW HAVEN, Conn. -- The family of a man left paralyzed while in the custody of New Haven Police is now suing the city, seeking $100 million in damages.
The incident was caught on camera and we warn you, the video might be difficult to watch.
Randy Cox has been paralyzed from the chest down since getting arrested by New Haven Police in June. He was arrested on suspicion of illegally possessing a handgun.
The 36-year-old was sitting by himself in the back of a police van, handcuffed, when the driver stopped suddenly, sending Cox crashing head-first into the doors.
READ MORE: Calls for federal charges against New Haven police officers for treatment of Randy Cox
When officers later opened the back of the van, Cox told them he couldn't move, even saying he thought his neck was broken, but they pulled him out of the van by his feet.
He was processed in a wheelchair and dragged into a holding cell.
Five officers were later placed on administrative leave.
"What happened to Randy Cox never should have happened, and if we say we respect Randy Cox's life ... then we have to show that by action," said Benjamin Crump, Cox's attorney.
Cox recently readmitted to the hospital due to complications from his injuries.