Dallas Police Officers Cleared In Deadly Shooting
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DALLAS (CBS 11 NEWS) – A grand jury has cleared two Dallas Police officers of any wrongdoing in the shooting death of a man armed with a screwdriver.
However, Jason Harrison's family says the grand jury decision won't stop their fight to change the way police respond to mentally ill suspects.
"I was expecting something different, the start of a change today. But, it's consistent," said Sean Harrison, Jason's brother.
Harrison says the family is disappointed but not deterred.
"There is a better way. But, if you're not held accountable to use the better way…" said Harrison, shrugging his shoulders.
In June of last year, police body cameras captured the fatal confrontation. Family members had warned them that Jason Harrison was mentally ill. They have since filed a civil lawsuit, alleging excessive force.
Police Body Cam Video Shows Deadly DPD Officer Involved Shooting
"We want officers to use force in the field because it is regrettably necessary; but, we don't want them to be using deadly and excessive force in context where the facts don't warrant it," said Attorney Geoff Henley, who represents the Harrison family.
While there is no true victory to be had, supporters say the officers are not villains. Still, Harrison's family members worry about the next encounter with another North Texan with a mental illness.
The Harrison family's lawsuit is seeking unspecified damages. Their attorney says the grand jury's decision will not alter their strategy.
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