Federal Judge Refuses to Dismiss George Floyd Protestor Excessive Force Claims Against City of Minneapolis

On March 11, 2021, Judge Susan R. Nelson denied in part and granted in part the motion to dismiss filed by the City of Minneapolis Defendants. Judge Nelson denied the motion with respect to Plaintiffs’ claims that Minneapolis Police Department officers used excessive force on peaceful protestors, finding that Plaintiffs plausibly alleged the City of Minneapolis had a custom, policy, or practice of using excessive force on peaceful protestors in the days following the death of George Floyd. Judge Nelson also denied the motion to strike Plaintiffs’ class allegations. The Court granted the motion to dismiss Minneapolis Police Chief Arradondo without prejudice, holding that Plaintiffs did not plead sufficient facts to show he directed the excessive use of force. 

 This is an important ruling that will allow the case against the City of Minneapolis to move forward.