Family of 5-Year-Old Shooting Victim Launches Legal Action Against Georgia Deputy, Highlighting Ongoing Misconduct and Excessive Force Concerns

The family of a 5-year-old girl injured during a police pursuit in Fulton County, Atlanta, has initiated a comprehensive federal lawsuit against the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office and a former deputy, claiming negligence and a documented history of misconduct. On June 23, 2024, an unarmed Rashauny Mike Palmer evaded officers and crashed near a BP station while fleeing deputies. During the chaos, he sought refuge in a BMW alongside Aaliyah Adams and her family. Deputy Thomas Samples then discharged his weapon, wounding Adams' daughter, Skylar, in the arm. Attorney Ben Crump emphasized the urgent need for accountability. The lawsuit details Samples’ troubling past, including prior misconduct and reckless behavior. The family, supported by Crump and colleagues, is demanding a jury trial and damages, arguing that innocent lives were endangered on that fateful day. Douglas County Sheriff's Office refrained from commenting due to ongoing litigation.