Accident – death – Obituary News :

Family Files $30 Million Wrongful death Lawsuit Against Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and L.A. County are facing a $30 million wrongful death lawsuit filed by the family of a young mother who was tragically killed during a domestic dispute in Lancaster. Niani Finlayson, 27, lost her life while trying to protect herself and her 9-year-old daughter. The incident has been described as an act of domestic violence.

A moving vigil was held on Saturday to honor the memory of Niani Finlayson. Friends and family gathered to remember her, highlighting the impact she had on their lives. They spoke of her bravery and the love she had for her daughter. It was during this domestic dispute that Niani was shot and killed in front of her child.

Disturbing Details of the Incident

On December 4, Niani Finlayson called the deputies, seeking help after her boyfriend refused to leave her alone. The authorities heard screams and signs of a struggle during the distressing phone call.

Upon arriving at the apartment, the deputies heard an argument taking place inside. They attempted to enter the residence, but Niani opened the front door while wielding a large kitchen knife. It was reported that she mentioned intending to stab her boyfriend for pushing her daughter.

According to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Niani moved towards her boyfriend, still holding the knife, as the deputies entered the home. In an attempt to protect her boyfriend, she grabbed him, leading to a deputy-involved shooting.

The tragic outcome saw Niani Finlayson being struck by gunfire and collapsing to the floor. The deputy responsible for the fatal shooting has been identified as Ty Shelton. Paramedics provided immediate medical attention, rushing her to the hospital. However, Niani was pronounced dead upon arrival.

Lawsuit Alleges Prior Domestic Violence

According to the wrongful death lawsuit filed by Niani Finlayson’s family, she had called for help due to her former boyfriend strangling her and injuring her daughter. The family believes that the law enforcement officers failed to protect Niani, instead treating her as the perpetrator rather than the victim.

Tracy Hall, Niani’s mother, expressed her disbelief, stating, “We’re supposed to depend on the law to protect us or at least try to protect us the best they can, but it seems like their heart was not there. They chose to do something different and devastate everyone’s lives that were impacted.”

Lamont Finlayson, Niani’s father, added, “She called for help in her apartment. A violent domestic call. They get there and instead of them treating the perpetrator with justice, they turn it around and she becomes the perpetrator. But in reality, she was the victim.”

Bradley Gage, the attorney representing Niani Finlayson’s family, questioned the actions of the officers involved. Gage emphasized that officers should be trained not to shoot and kill when they are uncertain about the situation and the potential presence of innocent bystanders. He highlighted the danger posed to Niani’s 9-year-old daughter, who could have been harmed during the incident.

Department’s Response and Ongoing Investigation

In response to the lawsuit, the L.A. County Sheriff’s Department released a statement, although they have not officially received the claim. The department assured that all deputy-involved shootings are taken seriously, and they plan to release the body-worn camera footage of the incident earlier than required.

The shooting will undergo a thorough review process, including examination by the Office of Inspector General, to determine if the department followed proper procedures and policies. Additionally, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, Justice System Integrity Division, will conduct a legal analysis to determine if any criminal charges should be filed and if the shooting was legally justified.

It was reported that a kitchen knife with an approximate eight-inch blade was recovered from the scene. No other injuries were reported during the incident.

Seeking Justice for Niani Finlayson

Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the case to contact LASD’s homicide detectives at (323) 890-5500. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to L.A. Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477.

The tragic death of Niani Finlayson has sparked outrage and raised questions about the responsibility of law enforcement officers in cases of domestic violence. Her family’s lawsuit seeks justice and accountability, aiming to shed light on the actions that led to Niani’s untimely demise. As the investigation continues, the community waits for answers and hopes that this incident will prompt necessary changes to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

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