Coincidentally, I have received word today of two promised court actions related to alleged police abuse.
The ACLU of Arkansas said it would announce details of a federal court lawsuit over police abuse at the courthouse at 10 a.m. Tuesday. An ACLU spokesman wouldn't provide details in advance.
Also today, I heard from Anthony Westbrook, 39. Westbrook had earlier complained about his handling by Saline County jail staff after his arrest and detention in May 2011 in Benton for driving with a suspended driver's license. A Channel 4 report at the time illustrated with jail video some of Westbrook's handling in the jail, including his placement in a restraint chair for what a jail official said was "belligerent" behavior.
Westbrook said his physical abuse broke dental crowns and a plate, damage that could take $8,000 to repair. He said his attorney is expected to file a civil suit tomorrow on the matter, but I was unable to reach him for further details.