Story perspectives

Appeals Court Revives Lawsuit Against Police Over Mental Health Crisis

9/19/2025

Summary

Story summary

A federal appeals court has allowed Melissa Wooden's lawsuit against Metro Nashville police to proceed, reversing an earlier dismissal.
Officers tased and shot Wooden during a mental health crisis in March 2021, causing severe injuries.
The Sixth Circuit underscored the Fourth Amendment's protection against police violence in non-threatening mental health situations.
This incident follows a report advocating for better police responses to mental health crises, resulting in a co-response program in 2021.
Challenges in managing mental health emergencies continue, as evidenced by a recent fatal shooting of another individual in crisis.

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Story summary

A federal appeals court has allowed Melissa Wooden's lawsuit against Metro Nashville police to proceed, reversing an earlier dismissal.
Officers tased and shot Wooden during a mental health crisis in March 2021, causing severe injuries.
The Sixth Circuit underscored the Fourth Amendment's protection against police violence in non-threatening mental health situations.
This incident follows a report advocating for better police responses to mental health crises, resulting in a co-response program in 2021.
Challenges in managing mental health emergencies continue, as evidenced by a recent fatal shooting of another individual in crisis.