Accident – Death – Obituary News :
In a recent development, attorneys representing the City of Pocatello and four police officers named as defendants in a lawsuit have requested a summary judgment in their favor. The motion, filed on Jan. 31, argues that the plaintiff, Jake Lee Sheeler, has failed to provide any evidence to support his claims. The attorneys for the defendants, including Police Chief Roger Schei and officers Bridget McArthur, Jeffrey Eldridge, and Marisa Saldana, assert that Sheeler’s Fourth Amendment rights were not violated.
Details of the Incident
The incident in question took place following a burglary in which Sheeler took a handgun from a home on Hyde Avenue in Pocatello. Sheeler was subsequently shot five times by officers McArthur, Eldridge, and Saldana during a search for him. The lawsuit filed on Sheeler’s behalf in July 2022 seeks more than $13 million in damages.
Police Response
According to reports, officers responded to a burglary report and found Sheeler inside a home’s detached garage. Sheeler allegedly pointed a gun at the homeowner and made threatening remarks. Despite attempts to apprehend him, Sheeler fled the scene, leading to a pursuit by law enforcement.
Legal Arguments
The motion for summary judgment argues that the City of Pocatello was not negligent in its training and supervision of the officers involved. Additionally, the officers are said to be protected by their rights as law enforcement officials. The defense maintains that the officers acted in accordance with established protocols and used deadly force to protect themselves and others.
Contradictory Claims
Sheeler’s family initially disputed the police reports of the incident, claiming that he had been shot in the back. However, subsequent investigations deemed the shooting justified. The defense contends that Sheeler posed a threat to the community and officers, justifying the use of force.
Response to Allegations
In their response to the motion, Sheeler’s attorneys challenge the justification for the use of force, citing conflicting commands given by the officers. They argue that Sheeler was unarmed at the time of the shooting and that the officers were informed of this fact prior to the incident.
Conclusion
As the legal proceedings unfold, the outcome of the motion for summary judgment remains pending. The case highlights the complex nature of law enforcement actions and the legal challenges that arise in such situations. Both parties await a decision from the court to determine the next steps in this ongoing legal battle.
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