Civil Rights Lawsuit Alleges Unjustified Use of Force
The family of Ricky Cobb II, a Black man shot and killed by a Minnesota state trooper during a traffic stop in July 2024, filed a federal civil rights lawsuit this week. The lawsuit alleges the shooting was unjustified and unlawful, reigniting tensions in a city still grappling with the aftermath of George Floyd’s death.
Troopers Named in Lawsuit
The lawsuit names two troopers involved in the incident: Ryan Londregan, the officer who fired the fatal shots, and Brett Seide, who initiated the traffic stop. Londregan is currently facing separate criminal charges of murder in Cobb’s death.
Seeking Justice and Accountability
At a press conference, family attorney Bakari Sellers emphasized their desire for justice. “Ricky Cobb was a productive citizen,” Sellers said. “We will not let them vilify him. We want him to be allowed to rest in peace, and this lawsuit is another step towards holding the officers accountable for his death.”
Defense Attorney Responds
Londregan’s lawyer, Chris Madel, refuted the claims made in the lawsuit, mirroring his stance in the ongoing criminal case. “We will defend the civil lawsuit with the same vigor we’ve shown in the criminal matter,” Madel stated.
Potential for Further Action
While the initial lawsuit only names the individual troopers due to federal legal limitations, the family’s attorneys haven’t ruled out future actions. F. Clayton Tyler, another family attorney, indicated they may file a separate lawsuit against the Minnesota State Patrol in state court or amend the federal lawsuit as they gather more evidence.
Lawsuit Challenges Legality of Shooting
The lawsuit argues that Londregan’s use of force was excessive. It contends that neither trooper had a reasonable suspicion Cobb posed a threat and that their actions violated State Patrol policy and training protocols. The lawsuit seeks unspecified damages from the named defendants.
