Multiple Defendants Named in Taser Death Lawsuit

By Jaimee Wolbert

Published on February 28, 2006

Jeffrey Turner was shocked five times by Toledo police officers investigating a loitering complaint. The Ohio man received four more Taser shocks while in custody at the Lucas County Jail. The shocks were inflicted within a three-hour time period. Turner died later that day.

The Lucas County Coroner determined that the multiple shocks contributed to his death by exacerbating an existing heart condition and ruled his death a homicide.

The lawsuit, which was filed in Lucas County Court, claims that officers and sheriff's deputies wrongfully assaulted Turner and engaged in misconduct. The lawsuit also alleges that Turner was praying silently outside the Toledo Museum of Art when officers confronted him.

The police department's internal affairs bureau concluded officers did not use excessive force in arresting Turner, and the use of the Taser was justified.

Turner's mother is seeking more than $25,000 in punitive damages.

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