NEW ORLEANS - Jefferson Parish's sheriff has been named in a lawsuit alleging inappropriate response to one plaintiff entering a CVS without a mask.
Charles Justice, a citizen of East Baton Rouge Parish, and Travis Williams, a resident of East Feliciana, filed a federal complaint on August 23 in the Eastern District of Louisiana against Jefferson Parish, Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office, Sheriff Joseph P. Lopinto III, Deputy Chase B. Maffee and Deputy Michael Morrison.
According to the complaint, Justice and Williams allege being falsely arrested and maliciously prosecuted on Aug. 21, 2020, until Justice was released on Aug. 22, 2020. The plaintiffs allege that on Aug. 21, 2020, they entered a CVS after Williams began having a diabetic episode and went in to get something to help raise his blood sugar.
Justice was bombarded by an employee, unbeknownst to him the manager, who stated that since he was not wearing a mask, he would not be served, the lawsuit alleges. Justice attempted to explain the medical emergency and reported that he had a doctor’s note allowing him to be exempt from the mask mandates.
He then requested a manager, the suit says. The employee walked to the back and within a few moments returned to again state he would not be served, the suit says. Williams then also entered the store to explain he needed medical aid and was denied service. The store manager then called police.
"During this period of time, one of the arresting deputies pointed a loaded gun, belonging to Travis Williams, at the plaintiff’s head. Scared to be shot, the plaintiffs requested that the officers handle the weapons in a safe manner," the complaint says.
"At some point, the officer again begins to be aggressive, and ultimately dislocates the shoulder of plaintiff Travis Williams. At no point was aid provided to Travis Williams for his medical needs. Travis was forced to 'pop' his shoulder back into place on his own."
Justice and Williams seek punitive damages, attorney's fees and cost of suit. Justice and Williams are represented by Amira A. Makke.
U.S. District Court Eastern District of Louisiana case number 2:21-cv-01601-LMA-DMD