Fairfax County Police Face Lawsuit Over "Commando-Style Assault" Claim

Written by: Sam Orlando

Fairfax, VA — A recent lawsuit has been filed against the Fairfax County Police Department and Detective Kevin Morgan, centering on allegations of excessive use of force and failure to conduct a proper investigation. The plaintiff, Lawrence Charles, seeks a significant monetary compensation for the injuries and damages suffered during the arrest.

According to court documents filed on October 18, 2023, in the Eastern District of Virginia, Charles alleges that on September 27, 2023, members of the Fairfax Police Department, in collaboration with the U.S. Marshals, executed a "commando-style assault" on his company vehicle in Herndon, Virginia. Charles claims he was unaware of any outstanding warrants against him by the Fairfax Police Department or U.S. Marshals.

The complaint details that Charles' vehicle was rammed from behind, causing him a back injury. Subsequently, the windshield was smashed, resulting in glass injuries, including damage to one of Charles' eyes. Despite his alleged cooperation, Charles claims he was threatened with gunfire and was forcibly removed from his vehicle. After his arrest, the supposed victim in the case reportedly declared Charles' innocence.

Notably, Charles highlights that the Fairfax Police Department admitted to not conducting a thorough investigation or even reaching out to him before the arrest. The lawsuit emphasizes the need for proper police procedures and the importance of ensuring suspects' rights.

Charles seeks monetary damages totaling $50,000,000 for the injuries and trauma experienced during the arrest.

Representatives for the Fairfax County Police Department have yet to publicly comment on the lawsuit. The case, filed under the Civil Rights Act 42 U.S.C. § 1983, which grants individuals the right to sue government officials for civil rights violations, is currently awaiting further proceedings.

This lawsuit underscores ongoing debates regarding police procedures and the use of force, spotlighting the imperative for transparent, accountable, and just law enforcement.