In a harrowing revelation that has sent shockwaves through communities, a jury has found three Dallas police officers liable for the wrongful death of Anthony Timer, awarding $1 million to his son, Colton. This verdict, reached in September 2023, follows a tragic encounter on August 10, 2016, when Timer, a 32-year-old father battling schizophrenia, died after being restrained by officers during a mental health crisis.
What began as a routine call for help spiraled into a nightmare. Timer, who had reached out to police for assistance during a psychotic episode, found himself pinned to the ground with an officer’s knee on his back for over 14 minutes. Despite his desperate pleas for help, “I can’t breathe,” the officers maintained their hold, joking amongst themselves as Timer’s condition worsened. The chilling footage, released only after a lengthy legal battle, contradicts initial claims of Timer’s aggression and reveals a harrowing disregard for his humanity.
The aftermath of Timer’s death has been a painful journey for his family, who initially faced a wall of silence from authorities. The Dallas Police Department withheld names and footage, and despite the medical examiner ruling his death a homicide due to excessive force, criminal charges against the officers were dropped. It wasn’t until 2021 that the Fifth Circuit Court reversed a qualified immunity ruling, paving the way for the civil trial that finally held the officers accountable.
In a parallel case from 1998, the tragic death of Christopher Alder in police custody continues to haunt the UK. Alder, a former soldier, died after being left unattended while struggling to breathe, with officers allegedly mocking his plight. Despite an unlawful killing verdict, no officers faced criminal charges, and the case has raised ongoing concerns about systemic racism and negligence within law enforcement.
As families continue to seek justice for their loved ones, these cases highlight the urgent need for accountability and reform in police practices worldwide. The echoes of Timer and Alder’s stories resonate deeply, demanding a reckoning for those sworn to protect and serve.