Family of Activist Killed in 'Cop City' Raid Files Federal Lawsuit
The lawsuit alleges First and Fourth Amendment violations during the 2023 police operation that led to the death of Manuel Paez Terán near a controversial Atlanta training center.
- Manuel Paez Terán's family has filed a federal lawsuit against three officers involved in the January 2023 raid that resulted in the activist's death near the planned Atlanta Public Safety Training Center.
- The lawsuit claims violations of Paez Terán's First Amendment rights, arguing the raid targeted protesters for expressing political beliefs, and Fourth Amendment rights, citing excessive force and false arrest on public land.
- Paez Terán, known as Tortuguita, was killed after officers fired pepper balls into their tent; police claim the activist shot at officers, injuring one, before being fatally shot by six troopers.
- The family has criticized the lack of transparency in the investigation, including the absence of body camera footage of the shooting and the state's refusal to release investigative files.
- The 'Stop Cop City' movement, opposing the $115 million training center over environmental and police militarization concerns, has gained global attention, with activists continuing to demand accountability and justice.
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