Lawsuit Claims Assault on Jerry Minor: The federal lawsuit alleges that Jerry Minor, a 55-year-old man, was subjected to assault by three Lauderdale County Corrections officers while in jail. According to Roderick Van Daniel, representing Minor, the incident involved the denial of a phone call, pepper-spraying, and physical assault.
Minor reportedly requested a phone call by knocking on the drunk tank window. In response, Officer Christopher Hart allegedly pepper-sprayed Minor and denied him the requested call. Subsequently, deputies Devin Whitehead and Nicholas Roach took Minor to the shower, where, as described by Van Daniel, they physically attacked him after he threw his underwear at Whitehead.
Van Daniel highlighted three separate instances of assault within a 45-minute timeframe, emphasizing the infringement on Minor’s constitutional and first amendment rights. He detailed excessive force, including kicks to the head, resulting in Minor sustaining a black eye.
Sheriff Joe Hamilton, while unable to comment on the matter, confirmed Whitehead’s termination and Roach and Hart remaining with the department. Roach received a suspension and a referral to de-escalation training.
Van Daniel emphasized the pursuit of justice, accountability for law enforcement agencies, and the need for proper training and adherence to policies and procedures. He expressed commitment to pressing the matter until his client receives justice for the reported incidents.
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