Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Involvement In Recent Shootings Could Result In Lawsuits

On October 14, 2010, Charlotte Mecklenburg Police responded to an argument among neighbors in a South Charlotte neighborhood. Apparently, David Martin Sebaste was blowing his car horn and yelling at a neighbor. According to Police, Officer Patrick Howell illuminated the area, and Mr. Sebaste raised a gun, firing several shots at Officer Howell. Officer Howell returned fire, and Mr. Sebaste ran into the house, where he was later discovered dead. Court records reveal that Mr. Sebaste has no criminal record.

Man dead after shootout with CMPD officer, CharlotteObserver.com, 10/15/10

Charlotte Mecklenburg Police were also recently called to Brandie Glen Lane in North Charlotte recently in response to a stabbing incident. According to reports, the victim approached Police, indicating the suspect was still in the area. While looking for the suspect, the victim's son approached Police. According to Police, the young man was carrying a shiny object, which he refused to drop. A Police officer shot the young man, severely injuring him. There are conflicting reports regarding precisely what the victim's son was carrying, and the events leading up to his shooting.

The Inglewood, California Police Department recently reached a settlement for the wrongful shooting death of Kevin Wicks in July of 2008. An officer responded to a domestic disturbance call on the night in question, and Mr. Wicks answered the door with an unloaded handgun, according to evidence in the case. The Wicks case was of particular note because the officer in question was involved in a deadly shooting of an unarmed suspect just two months prior to the incident with Mr. Wicks. The prior incident resulted in settlements totaling $2.45 million.

Judge approves $750,000 settlement for girl whose father was slain by Inglewood police, Los Angeles Times, 11/02/2010