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Family Sues Joliet Police Over 12-Year-Old's Frisking

1/23/2026

26 5 Full Breakdown

Center

Girl Sues Police

The family of a 12-year-old girl filed a federal lawsuit against the Joliet Police Department.
The February 18, 2024 traffic stop occurred after police stopped the vehicle for suspended registration.
Body camera footage shows the girl being frisked without any reasonable suspicion.
The lawsuit alleges violations of the Fourth and Fourteenth Amendments.
The girl has experienced trauma and separation anxiety since the incident.

Right

Millers Sue Police

Nathan and Amber Miller filed a federal lawsuit against the South Portland Police Department after their son was detained at gunpoint during a May 2025 lunch break.
The lawsuit alleges violations of the teen's constitutional rights due to officers failing to verify his identity.
The Millers argue police should have recognized their son was not the suspect based on physical descriptions.
The city has not commented on the pending litigation.

History

Historical Context

The 1985 Supreme Court ruling in Tennessee v. Garner established that police cannot use deadly force against unarmed fleeing suspects unless they pose a significant threat. This decision, rooted in Fourth Amendment protections, led to a 16% reduction in police homicides. Recent lawsuits against police departments reflect ongoing concerns about excessive force, highlighting the need for accountability and reform in law enforcement practices.

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Girl Sues Police

The family of a 12-year-old girl filed a federal lawsuit against the Joliet Police Department.
The February 18, 2024 traffic stop occurred after police stopped the vehicle for suspended registration.
Body camera footage shows the girl being frisked without any reasonable suspicion.
The lawsuit alleges violations of the Fourth and Fourteenth Amendments.
The girl has experienced trauma and separation anxiety since the incident.

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