Judge Allows Partial Continuation of Lawsuit Over Deputy's Handling of Diabetic Man
A federal judge let a man continue part of his excessive-force suit after a deputy threw him to the ground during a diabetic episode.
San Diego County sheriff’s deputies were sued by David Beck, who says a deputy known as Deputy Thompson violently restrained him during a diabetic episode on Nov. 25, 2024, causing a separated shoulder and lasting harm. U.S. District Judge Thomas Whelan partially granted the county’s motion to dismiss, striking the Monell claim and the intentional-infliction of emotional distress claim, but found the deputy’s actions unreasonable given knowledge of Beck’s condition.
The judge rejected the county’s attempt to dismiss claims under the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Rehabilitation Act, noting the deputy saw Beck’s glucose monitor and was warned by his girlfriend. Beck was also charged with resisting arrest, though the district attorney declined prosecution. He retains the ability to amend his complaint, and the case continues on the remaining allegations of excessive force, unlawful arrest, assault, negligence, false imprisonment and a Bane Act violation.
Why it matters
The ruling highlights how police actions toward individuals with medical emergencies are legally scrutinized.
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