Scott Family claims “gross negligence” in Lawsuit Against City, Police Department

CHARLOTTE, NC – Nearly two years after his death, the family of Keith Lamont Scott filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the city of Charlotte, CMPD, and the officer who shot him.

“It’s our belief that it was the actions of the officers that unnecessarily escalated this situation to the point where it resulted in Keith Scott’s death,” said Charles Monnett, the Scott family attorney.

He argues the officers escalated a routine arrest to “a situation that is unpredictable.” And that officers “did not discuss or consider other less extreme options” for dealing with Scott.

“We strongly believe that Keith Scott’s death was unnecessary and it should never have occurred,” said Monnett.

Scott was sitting in his truck when police say they saw him with a gun and a “marijuana cigarette.” The incident was caught on camera by Scott’s wife. After multiple commands for Scott to drop his weapon, officer Brentley Vinson fired at Scott, killing him.

The District Attorney reviewed the state’s investigation of the incident and determined the officer was justified. According to the DA’s conclusions, there was evidence that Scott was armed and drew his gun when approached by undercover officers and that he didn’t drop the weapon when told to repeatedly.

With no criminal charges being brought, the Scott family is now seeking at least $60,000 dollars in damages.

“What were seeking is reasonable compensation for his wife and children for his loss,” said Monnett.

The city declined to comment in detail on the allegations, city attorney Robert Hagemann writing, “The filing of the lawsuit is not unexpected. We will respond to the allegations through the judicial process.”

The Scott family says Keith Scott had a traumatic brain injury. They maintain the medication he was taking caused him to react the way he did the day of the shooting.