On September 21, 2018, Officer Justin Richards was involved in restraining Spencer Erickson during his arrest. While a police dog bit Erickson’s neck, Richards held down Erickson’s extremities, contributing to his severe injuries. A federal judge allowed a lawsuit against Richards and other officers to proceed, indicating potential excessive use of force. ([coloradopolitics.com](https://www.coloradopolitics.com/news/federal-judge-greenlights-lawsuit-against-lakewood-officers-in-police-dog-attack/article_7355023c-01b5-11eb-b477-8713ad7fcea9.html?utm_source=openai))