On January 31, 2012, Officer Smith responded to a call involving O’Patrick Humphrey, a man suffering from schizophrenia who had become combative with paramedics. Upon arrival, Smith encountered Humphrey approaching him while waving his arms. Smith discharged his firearm, fatally wounding Humphrey in the groin. A lawsuit alleging excessive force was filed against Smith and the City of Headland. The court granted Smith qualified immunity, dismissing the excessive force claims against him and the city. The plaintiffs were given an opportunity to amend their complaint. The case highlights concerns about the use of force by officers when dealing with individuals experiencing mental health crises.
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