Allegations:
Bell was at a gathering near West 57th Street And South Sangamon Street to honor the anniversary of a friend's death. Officer Cain and Thurman arrived at the scene, possibly in response to a noise complaint, broke up the gathering and ordered guests to exit the house and stand on the front lawn. Bell left the yard and started to walk away. Cain and Thurman approached him and beat and searched him. Although they found no contraband or evidence of illegal activity, the officers handcuffed Bell, arrested him and took him to a police station. He spent seven hours in custody before being taken to the hospital to treat his injuries. He was then returned to the station and charged with mob action and disorderly conduct. Two days later, Bell filed a complaint with the Independent Police Review Authority. Five months later, he was found not guilty of both charges at trial.