Isaiah Lewis was experiencing an uncharacteristic episode of erratic behavior, putting him in a vulnerable state when his confrontation with officers began. The responding officers shot an unarmed Lewis multiple times, leading to his death shortly thereafter. The District Attorney of Oklahoma County deemed the officers’ actions justified, putting an end to the criminal component of the litigation. But the story does not end there.
Parents of teen shot by Edmond police file lawsuit against city, officers
While the decision by the District Attorney to not bring criminal charges against the officers is a disappointment to Lewis’ family, together with Action, they remain determined to advance justice on their loved one’s behalf through a civil suit.
There are many questions left to be answered regarding the events of April 29, 2019, and through this litigation the Lewis family is confident that justice will be served.
“Every time I close my eyes and try to sleep, all I can think about is my child crying out for help, that's something that will haunt me to the day I die,” Vicki Lewis, Isaiah’s mother
Action is leading the charge on this civil case, which will provide a meaningful addition to the ongoing nationwide issue of police practices - specifically relating to mental health crisis intervention and de-escalation.
