A Black family in Lakeland, Florida, was in their own home when police officers arrested them while searching for a suspect who fled a traffic stop. The incident reportedly escalated when a police dog was allegedly let loose and attacked the mother, resulting in injuries. Now, a civil rights lawsuit has put a dent in Lakeland city’s finances.
In March 2019, Lakeland police officers were chasing after a man suspected of driving a stolen vehicle before the chase shifted to a search on foot, according to LkldNow. Tracking down the suspect reportedly led the officers to an apartment complex. Officer Chad Landry was said to have announced, “Lakeland Police Department canine unit. If you can hear my voice, make your presence known or the canine unit will find and bite you,” per court documents.
Landry had his K-9, a Belgian Malinois named Nox, track the suspect’s scent on the sidewalk before officers stumbled upon Iquan Isaac talking to a neighbor. They ordered the individuals to return to their apartment, but Iquan accidentally knocked over a lamp and a table in his family’s apartment.
Florida family was arrested and charged despite being unrelated to suspect search
The commotion reportedly woke up Iquan’s father, Lorenzo, who opened their apartment door to investigate. He was met with officers shouting and was also ordered to return inside. “Go inside, or you’re going to be charged,” officers told Lorenzo, according to court documents…