Police Officer Places Man in “Illegal” Choke Hold

  • Sep 01 2015
  • Gilleon Law Firm, APC

A frightening recent San Diego event illustrates the importance of being aware of your surroundings and to try to document any interactions with police officers in case of possible personal injury.

Robert Branch was on his way to work when he was nearly forced off the road by a vehicle he attempted to pass. He was able to get away from the vehicle, but was again approached by the same driver while he was stopped. Branch says he was suspicious and turned on his cell phone to record his interaction with the driver.

The video shows Branch being stopped by a man in an unmarked car which did not have its lights on. The man identifies himself as a police officer and says, “You are being detained. Please sit down.” He then grabs Branch, who was able to record the incident clearly. In the video, Branch says several times, “You cannot touch me.” The two struggle and the officer puts Branch in a choke hold. He is then wrestled to the ground by the officer.

Branch was jailed and charged with resisting arrest, obstruction of justice and reckless driving. However, he and his attorney believe that the officer did almost everything wrong. He did not call for backup or a uniformed officer and he resorted to extreme measures for what should have been a misdemeanor. The district attorney is currently reviewing the case to see if any charges are warranted.

Personal Injury and the Police

If you are injured by a police officer, you may have grounds to seek compensation through a personal injury suit. Police officers are required to conduct arrests and other law enforcement tasks in a careful and regulated way to avoid injury. While some injuries occur due to a suspect’s actions, there are cases when police act in an illegal or improper manner, resulting in injury.

If you have been injured by a police officer, it will be difficult to seek compensation. However, it is not impossible to successfully seek compensation from a negligent officer. If you believe a police officer acted negligently and caused your injuries, contact the personal injury attorneys at the Gilleon Law Firm, APC in San Diego today. Our team of attorneys will review your case and help you if negligence is discovered. We are here to represent your best interests in your case.


Free Initial Consultation

Contact