Family of Deceased Church Deacon Sues Atlanta Police Over Taser Incident

Lawsuit alleges violation of constitutional rights, excessive force, and failure to render medical aid in incident leading to Johnny Hollman's death.

The family of Johnny Hollman, a 62-year-old church deacon who died after being tased by former Atlanta police officer Kiran Kimbrough, has filed a federal civil rights lawsuit against the officer, the police chief, and the city of Atlanta.
The lawsuit alleges that Hollman's constitutional rights were violated, excessive force was used, and medical aid was not rendered promptly, leading to his wrongful death.
The incident occurred on August 10, 2023, after Hollman was involved in a minor traffic accident and was asked by Kimbrough to sign a citation. A physical struggle ensued, during which Kimbrough used a stun gun on Hollman, who later died in the hospital.
An autopsy report determined Hollman's death was a homicide, caused by abnormal heart rhythms due to the use of a stun gun, associated with a pre-existing cardiovascular condition.
The lawsuit also claims that the city of Atlanta has a widespread practice of excusing the use of excessive force by failing to thoroughly investigate credible complaints. The case is currently under review by the Fulton County District Attorney’s Office.