Allegations:
Laura Thompson and her son Derek Thompson were at home along with Laura Thompson's brother and her husband, Douglas Coley, when several police officers kicked in their front door. The officers had a search warrant for crack cocaine based on allegations that Laura Thompson's brother was selling drugs. The family dog, Tango, began barking from about six feet away from the officers, but did not approach them or growl at them. Laura Thompson assured the officers that Tango would not hurt them, to which Officer Vincent said, “He's got to go.” Vincent shot Tango three times, and Tango ran into a nearby bedroom, injured and bleeding. The officers asked Derek Thompson about selling drugs, and Derek Thompson explained that he had a full-time job and did not sell drugs. The officers searched Derek Thompson and the home without finding any drugs or other contraband. They accused Derek Thompson of having a gun in his bedroom, but Derek Thompson denied owning a gun. Officers Coda and Guerrero arrested him and Officer Medrano approved the arrest. Derek was taken to Cook County Jail, where he stayed for more than a month before posting bond. As a result of the arrest, Derek lost his job at a company where he had worked full-time for 20 years. Because he lost his job, his home went into foreclosure. More than a year later, Derek was found not guilty of all charges. Tango died soon after the incident.