RIP Johnny Hollman: Family Suing Atlanta, Ex-Cop In Taser Death Of Black Deacon After Minor Car Accident

A civil rights complaint against Atlanta and former Atlanta Police Officer Kiran Kimbrough will be addressed by the family of 62-year-old Black deacon Johnny Hollman Sr. According to the lawsuit, Hollman repeatedly informed the officer, “I can’t breathe” during a tragic confrontation last July.

After ending bible study at his daughter’s house, Hollman had a minor car accident on August 10, 2023. Kimbrough arrived after calling 911 and waiting almost an hour. Traffic ticket issued by Kimbrough to Hollman for fault. Hollman complained to Kimbrough’s sergeant about the ticket but was ignored and threatened with jail if he didn’t sign. Despite Hollman’s readiness to sign, Kimbrough allegedly used undue force.

“In unfortunate situations, we give cops due process and let the evidence decide. There was obvious evidence of a department SOP breach.” – Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens

Hollman’s family claims Kimbrough tackled and tasered him instead of addressing his concerns. After 16 “I can’t breathe”s, Hollman became comatose and was confirmed dead at Grady Hospital.

Kimbrough said Hollman was aggressive and uncooperative. The former officer said, “He grabbed my hand like he was going to hit me, so I punched him a couple of times, Tased him, and put him in cuffs.” Black Kimbrough has not been charged with Hollman’s death.

After two months, the city dismissed Kimbrough for not waiting for a supervisor before arresting Hollman, not for his death. Body camera footage from the Fulton County District Attorney’s office illuminated the fateful interaction in November.

“As Mayor, I know it is critically important for the City of Atlanta to continually assess, evaluate, and adjust how our public safety departments carry out their sworn mission to serve and protect our citizens,” he said. “In unfortunate situations, we give cops due process and let the evidence decide. There was obvious evidence of a department SOP breach.”

Hollman’s family’s lawsuit seeks justice for their loved one and raises awareness of police misconduct, accountability, and systemic changes to prevent future incidents.

After a minor vehicle accident, respected deacon Johnny Hollman sought help. An ordinary situation should not have ended so tragically. The family’s case against Atlanta and Kiran Kimbrough highlights the need to examine policing procedures and excessive force.

Body camera footage of Hollman’s death adds to the complexity of police encounters. The family’s claim that Hollman’s “I can’t breathe” pleadings were ignored as he faced rising force calls into question police’ conduct and regulations.

The termination of former Officer Kimbrough for procedural infractions, unrelated to Hollman’s death, raises questions about existing accountability systems. The lack of criminal charges against Kimbrough for Hollman’s killing highlights the legal challenges of prosecuting law enforcement agents.

The family’s advocacy led to the release of the body camera footage, a major step toward transparency. It also raises awareness of the delays and difficulties families encounter in obtaining justice, including essential evidence disclosure.

Mayor Andre Dickens’ acknowledgement of Atlanta Police Department policy revisions and commitment to new video evidence release guidelines promotes accountability. Despite regulatory changes, Johnny Hollman Sr.’s death underlines the need for systemic reform that addresses the root causes of such instances.

Police reforms are in demand after high-profile cases like George Floyd’s death, which sparked widespread protests. Transparency, accountability, and a full examination of police processes are key to tackling law enforcement’s persistent challenges.

Johnny Hollman Sr.’s family’s lawsuit encourages law enforcement to rethink its non-violent interactions with the public. It emphasizes de-escalation, training, and prioritizing life above force.

Honoring Johnny Hollman Sr. makes justice a shared obligation for communities, lawmakers, and law enforcement. The tragedy should inspire significant reform for a safer, fairer society.