LOS ANGELES – An autopsy report revealed Friday that a Los Angeles teacher who had been repeatedly shocked by a Taser, died of an enlarged and cocaine-induced heart.
Keenan Darnell, a 31-year-old man who died on Jan. 3, sparked a public outcry about the Los Angeles Police Department’s use of violence. This was one of three deadly LAPD encounters that included two shootings just days into the New Year.
The coroner report stated that the exact cause of Anderson’s death could not be determined, but it was “cardiomyopathy” and “cocaine use”. His death “was determined hours after restraints and the use of conducted energy devices”, the report added.
The Associated Press emailed the family’s lawyer, Carl Douglas on Friday night, seeking comment.
Anderson taught English at a Washington, D.C. high school and was a cousin to Black Lives Matter founder Patrisse Cullors.
Police said he was visiting his family in Los Angeles at the time he was arrested on suspicion of causing an accident and then fleeing in the Venice area.
According to police, Anderson was found “running in the street displaying erratic behaviour” by an officer.
Anderson first complied as officers investigated whether he had been under the influence. But then, he fled, said Police Chief Michel Moore.
The police chased Anderson, and during the struggle he was shocked at least six time with a Taser when he refused to be arrested.
Anderson said, “They’re trying George Floyd Me,” as an officer threatened with a stungun. The gun was fired repeatedly seconds later, as Anderson lay face-down on the sidewalk and begged for assistance, saying “I’m no longer resisting.”
footage from the LAPD’s body cameras shows that Anderson screamed out for help when he was repeatedly shocked and pinned down by police officers. The footage also shows an officer placing his elbow and forearm in Anderson’s neck.
Anderson yelled, “They’re attempting to kill me.”
Anderson, after being subdued by the police, went into cardiac arrhythmia and died in a hospital four hours later.
His relatives have submitted a $50,000,000 claim to the city. This is a legal prerequisite before filing a suit. According to the claim, officers used excessive force and failed to adhere with training. They also filed false police reports.
