Family Sues Jersey City Police Over Shooting

The family of Andrew Washington, a 52-year-old man shot by Jersey City police during a mental health crisis, is suing the police department and local officials one year after his death. They argue that police were dispatched instead of mental health professionals when his family called for help, leading to a violent encounter that ended in Washington being shot after he approached officers with a knife. The lawsuit claims the police violated Washington's civil rights and failed to follow standard de-escalation protocols, exacerbating the situation. Washington's sister, Courtnie Washington, expressed that her brother's death was entirely preventable and criticized the officers' response. Jersey City officials, including the mayor and public safety director, defended the police actions at the time, stating they believed the tactics used were appropriate. The family's legal action seeks compensatory and punitive damages, highlighting ongoing concerns about police responses to mental health crises in New Jersey.