ACLU of Michigan Takes Legal Action Against Warren Police for Mistreatment of Black Man During Mental Health Crisis

On Wednesday, the ACLU of Michigan initiated legal action against the Warren Police Department following the severe beating of a Black man experiencing a mental health crisis, an episode the officers were reportedly aware of.According to Alwanda Gibson, mother of 26-year-old Christopher Gibson, her son’s distress stemmed from visiting a terminally ill family member. She emphasized that his mental health conditions include psychosis and schizophrenia.Ms. Gibson believes the visit triggered Christopher’s episode, prompting her to call for the Detroit Police's assistance. However, before their arrival, he left and entered a gas station in Warren, coatless amid winter’s chill. Concerned employees alerted the police, which led to Christopher’s arrest, during which he endured brutal treatment.The ACLU's lawsuit alleges that the Warren Police officers mistreated Christopher, violating his Fourteenth Amendment rights and disregarding federal protections for individuals with disabilities. It highlights a troubling history of abuse within the department.Lawyer Mark Fancher, advocating for Christopher, pointed out the futility of violence against someone in trauma. He asserted that compassion and care should replace harsh tactics. ACLU attorney Syeda Davidson echoed this sentiment, advocating for mental health professionals to engage in such crises rather than militarized police response. (Photos: YouTube Screenshots)