A Crofton Man Dies After Anne Arundel County Police Officer Uses Taser

A tragic incident occurred in Maryland when a 21-year-old man, identified as Lavaughn Coleman, died after being stunned with a Taser by an Anne Arundel County police officer. The Taser caused Coleman to fall and hit his head, resulting in critical injuries that led to his untimely death. The Maryland Office of the Attorney General was informed of Coleman’s passing on December 15. As of now, his family has not provided any comments regarding the incident.

The investigation into the circumstances surrounding Coleman’s encounter with the officer, Corporal A. Stallings, began on October 29. Corporal Stallings, who has 10 years of experience, is a member of the Anne Arundel County Police Department’s Bureau of Patrol. The officer’s full name has not been released by the attorney general’s office. The investigation remains active and ongoing, according to officials.

The incident took place in Gambrills, specifically the 900 block of Waugh Chapel Way. County police officers responded to a report of two men in a vehicle with firearms and drugs around 4:30 p.m. on October 29. Upon arrival, officers ordered Coleman and another adult male in his teens out of the vehicle. While the teen was handcuffed, Coleman initially complied with the officers’ commands. However, he suddenly stood up and ran, colliding with the officer and causing his body-worn camera to fall off.

Corporal Stallings pursued Coleman and issued a command to stop before deploying his Taser stun gun. The Taser, which utilizes electrical currents to incapacitate individuals, struck Coleman, causing him to fall and hit his head. Other officers immediately provided medical assistance to Coleman and called for emergency medical services.

All officers present at the scene were equipped with body cameras, capturing the incident on video. The attorney general’s office typically releases body camera footage within 20 business days of an incident. However, this timeframe may be extended if additional time is required to complete witness interviews, protect the identities of civilian witnesses, or allow the family to view the video before public release.

It is a tragic event that has raised concerns and prompted an investigation into the actions of the involved police officer. The community awaits further updates on the investigation as they seek justice for Lavaughn Coleman’s untimely death.