Vermont Mother Sues Police Over Son's Treatment

Vermont police officers physically restrained a 14-year-old Black boy who has behavioral and intellectual disabilities after responding to a call from the boy's mother alleging that he stole electronic cigarettes. The boy was handcuffed and pinned to the ground, and was eventually injected with ketamine before being taken to the hospital. The incident has prompted a lawsuit against the police, raising concerns about the response to nonviolent mental health crises by police. The American Civil Liberties Union of Vermont is representing the case, which underscores the need for sufficient police training in dealing with people with disabilities and mental health challenges.