Man Pulled Over on Suspicion of DWI Sues Over Police Brutality

By Jordan Quinley

Published on November 14, 2007

Branden Johnson says that he was treated with excessive force, disrespected, and humiliated by officers after being pulled over. He was struck on the face and body, resulting in cutting, bruising, and fractured ribs, according to a trial brief filed by his attorneys.

The suit claims that at the time the incident occurred (Oct. 29, 2005), there was an “unwritten policy” that allowed excessive force to be used at the Sacramento County main jail.

The county denies there was such a de facto policy and maintains that jail personnel did not mean to harm Johnson and did nothing more than necessary to control Johnson.

Film from the Sacramento jail video cameras indicate some scuffles, but nothing that would injure Johnson. Film also shows blood being drawn from Johnson by force while Johnson repeated that that was illegal and that he would sue. The blood test showed an alcohol level of 0.12 percent as well as marijuana and Ecstasy, according to the defense attorney Jesse Rivera.

Johnson says he uses marijuana for medicinal reasons. He says he has never used Ecstasy.

Jurors will decide if excessive force was used, and, if so, whether it was in accordance with any policy.