The family of Najee Seabrooks has initiated a wrongful death lawsuit against the City of Paterson, claiming that police officers used excessive force when they shot and killed him during a mental health crisis on March 3, 2023. Seabrooks, a 31-year-old activist with the Paterson Healing Collective, had called 911 for assistance, which resulted in a nearly five-hour standoff before he was fatally shot without warning, according to the legal filings.
The lawsuit highlights serious allegations against the Paterson Police Department, asserting inadequate de-escalation techniques and a troubling history of using unreasonable force in similar situations. As New Jersey Attorney General Matt Platkin takes control of the police department amid scrutiny over its actions, the case adds to the urgent conversation about law enforcement’s treatment of individuals experiencing mental health crises.
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