Activist Files Suit Against MPD Over Arrest, Alleged Beating

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- The community activist who says he was arrested and beaten by Minneapolis police officers last summer has filed a lawsuit against the department and the two officers involved in the incident.

Al Flowers was arrested at his home last July. Police at the time said he didn't cooperate with them after they issued a search warrant for the arrest of his 16-year-old daughter.

Police claimed Flowers was aggressive and bit one of the officers. Flowers claimed police used excessive force. He said he sustained injuries to his head and torso during the arrest.

"I thought I did everything right, and I got caught off guard," Flowers said. "And once they attacked I felt every blow. I felt every 30 to 40 blows to my head."

In the aftermath, a number of community members called for an explanation.

An independent investigator completed a probe into the incident. The investigator, Don Lewis, and the Office of Police Conduct and Review found the actions of the officers did not rise to the action of discipline.

"My position on this case has never wavered. I strongly support the actions of my officers," Minneapolis Police Chief Janee Harteau said.

The Minneapolis City Attorney, Susan Segal, responded: "We will vigorously defend against the lawsuits and are confident that we will prevail in this case."