Home invasionOn dutyPetsMinorExcessive forceShootingFalse arrest or reportPhysical forceGunResisting or obstructing arrest charges
Plaintiff:
Thomas Russell III
Incident date:
02/27/2009
Allegations:
Thomas Russell III, 18, was at home one evening with his brother, D.R., 16, and their 9-year-old black Labrador named Lady when Russell heard a commotion coming from the apartment below theirs. Shortly after, several police officers arrived at the Russells' door with a search warrant that was obtained using false information. Thomas Russell opened the front door and asked if he could put away his dog, who was coming to the front room. Officer Katalinic responded by putting a gun to Thomas Russell's head, pushing him to the floor and putting him in handcuffs. Meanwhile, Lady came into the room with her tail wagging. Without hesitation, Officer Antonsen shot Lady in the head, killing her instantly. When D.R., who had heard the gunshot and his brother crying, came out of his room, the officers pointed a gun at his head and put him in handcuffs too. The officers arrested Thomas Russell and falsely charged him with obstruction of officers. The charge was later dismissed.