LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The Jefferson County Sheriff's Office is investigating a use-of-force incident involving a teenage girl in a back room at the Jefferson County Judicial Center, according to WDRB+WAVE. Sources said Sheriff David James launched the investigation into deputies and supervisors after the girl was allegedly stomped on.
What happened inside the courthouse?
A girl was allegedly rowdy in Judge Angela Johnson's family courtroom, and Johnson asked that she be removed, sources said. According to those sources, a physical encounter happened behind the scenes, and the girl was stomped on while another deputy grabbed her head.
The sheriff's office declined to comment on the case. The incident should have been captured on camera, and the office recently touted a $12 million purchase of 200 body cameras for its officers to increase transparency.
Why is the use-of-force investigation drawing attention?
The case comes amid other recent reviews of police conduct across the country:
- In Fayette County, Pennsylvania, the district attorney is investigating possible excessive use of force against an inmate.
- In York County, South Carolina, state agents are investigating after sheriff's deputies shot and injured a suspect who investigators say pointed a gun at a deputy.
- In Jackson, Michigan, state police are investigating an officer-involved shooting with a 16-year-old boy.
What happens next?
It is not clear when the sheriff's office will release findings or whether any disciplinary action will follow. WDRB+WAVE reported that James would not comment on the case.
FAQ
What is the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office investigating?
It is investigating a use-of-force incident involving a teenage girl in a back room at the Jefferson County Judicial Center, according to sources who spoke with WDRB+WAVE.
Has the sheriff's office commented on the case?
No. Sheriff David James would not comment on the case when reached by WDRB+WAVE.
