Traffic stopExcessive forceFalse arrest or reportPhysical forceGunExtended detentionAssault or battery to an officer chargesResisting or obstructing arrest chargesHospitalized
Plaintiff:
John Collins
Incident date:
01/03/2006
Location:
7900 S. Paxton Ave.
Allegations:
Collins was arrested near 79th Street and Paxton Avenue. While en route to a police station, officers stopped their squad car near 97th Street and South Jeffery Avenue, approached Collins in the back seat, and punched him repeatedly while he was handcuffed. Then they pulled Collins out of the car, threw him to the ground, and kicked and beat him. A squadrol arrived and the officers transferred Collins to it. After driving a short distance, Officer Garza stopped the squadrol, went to the back, and punched and beat Collins again. Collins was taken to a police station and later transported to South Shore Hospital where he received treatment for his injuries. He was charged with aggravated battery to a police officer and resisting arrest. He was incarcerated in Cook County Jail for over a year while awaiting trial. He was found not guilty on all counts.