Rankine Alleges False Accusations Destroyed Reputation
Timothy Rankine, a former Tacoma police officer acquitted in the 2020 death of Manuel Ellis, has filed multimillion-dollar claims against Washington state and local officials. Rankine, who is Asian American, alleges defamation, claiming he was falsely accused of criminal misconduct and racism.
Ellis’ Death and Officer Actions
Manuel Ellis, a Black man, died in March 2020 after being restrained by police during a mental health crisis. Video footage showed officers restraining Ellis facedown while he pleaded for breath. Rankine, one of the officers involved, knelt on Ellis’ back. Ellis died from a lack of oxygen, according to the medical examiner.
Rankine Acquitted but Wants Reputation Restored
Rankine was acquitted of manslaughter charges in December 2023. However, he claims the accusations have ruined his reputation and ability to return to law enforcement. His tort claims, seeking $47 million, target the state Attorney General’s office, city officials in Tacoma, and their staff. Rankine believes the accusations were politically motivated.
Previous Settlements and Ongoing Investigations
Rankine and his co-defendants received payouts from Tacoma earlier this year to leave the police department. Ellis’ family settled a wrongful death lawsuit with Pierce County for $4 million. A federal lawsuit filed by the family against the city and officers remains pending. Additionally, the Department of Justice is reviewing the case for potential civil rights violations, and state officials are investigating the officers’ certifications.
Uncertain Future for Officers Involved
While Rankine desires to return to law enforcement, another officer, Christopher Burbank, recently resigned after facing community backlash upon being hired by a neighboring county. The case of Manuel Ellis’ death continues to have legal and professional repercussions for the officers involved.
