The Shooting: A Mental Health Crisis Turns Deadly
On June 24, 2021, Michael Townsend, 34, called 911, reporting that he was feeling suicidal and needed help. When police arrived, Townsend was in the midst of a mental health crisis. Authorities claim he was agitated and was holding a hand tool when Officer Curtis Brown instructed him to drop the item. Townsend, allegedly not complying, was shot by Officer Brown after he advanced toward the officers. Townsend later died from his injuries.
The family’s lawsuit argued that Brown had several opportunities to de-escalate the situation and that there was no need for deadly force. Their case focused on the failure to use less lethal options or attempt to calm Townsend down verbally before escalating the situation.
Jury’s Verdict and the Family’s Legal Victory
After a trial, a jury allegedly ruled in favor of the Townsend family, awarding them over $1 million in damages. The jury found that Officer Brown’s use of deadly force was unjustified, emphasizing the failure to properly handle the mental health crisis. This ruling has added to the ongoing national conversation surrounding police accountability and the handling of individuals experiencing mental health crises by law enforcement.
City’s Reversal: Mayor’s Statement
Initially, the city had planned to challenge the jury’s decision, claiming that the verdict did not align with the state’s new use-of-force laws. However, Mayor Keith Wilson, along with city attorneys and consultations with the police union, decided to reverse the city’s stance. Wilson stated that continuing to oppose the jury’s decision would not serve the community and that it was time to provide closure for the Townsend family.
“I understand the emotional toll this case has taken on the Townsend family, and while we must ensure fair and effective policing, we also need to ensure that we are listening to our community,” said Wilson in a statement.
The Broader Impact on Police Reform
The case and the city’s eventual decision to drop the appeal have brought renewed attention to the issue of how law enforcement agencies respond to people in mental health crises. Advocates for mental health and police reform have used the case as a critical example of the need for better de-escalation training and non-lethal intervention tactics for officers.
Calls for change in policing, especially regarding mental health crisis management, have grown stronger, with many arguing that the traditional use of force is not appropriate in all circumstances. The Townsend case is seen as a landmark moment in the movement toward more compassionate and reform-driven policing.
Contact Police Brutality Center for Legal Assistance
If you or someone you know has been affected by a police use-of-force incident, particularly in cases involving mental health crises, you may be entitled to compensation. Police Brutality Center connects victims with experienced civil rights attorneys who specialize in police misconduct cases. Our partners at Meirowitz & Wasserberg are dedicated to providing legal support and fighting for justice on behalf of those harmed by law enforcement.
Contact Police Brutality Center today for a confidential consultation and learn how we can assist you in seeking justice.
