Cole Navarre has filed a lawsuit alleging police misconduct and excessive force, drawing attention to potential systemic issues within the Lake Arthur Police Department. The complaint was filed on February 3, 2025, in the United States District Court for the Western District of Louisiana against Joseph Abshire, Police Chief John Doe, Mayor John Doe, Officer John Doe 1, 2, and 3, the Lake Arthur Police Department, and the Town of Lake Arthur.
The incident at the heart of this case occurred on February 3, 2024. According to Navarre's complaint, he was at LA BAR when officers approached his friend for questioning. During this interaction, Navarre allegedly used profanity towards Officer Abshire. Without issuing any commands or warnings to Navarre, Officer Abshire reportedly assaulted him, resulting in a dislocated shoulder. Navarre contends that this use of force was excessive and violated his constitutional rights under both federal and Louisiana law.
Navarre's complaint further alleges that Officer Abshire has a history of injuring members of the public and escalating routine interactions into violent confrontations. It is claimed that despite this record and inadequate training as an officer, Abshire remains employed by the Town of Lake Arthur. The plaintiff asserts that these actions constitute violations under 42 U.S.C. § 1983 for excessive force and First Amendment retaliation.
The lawsuit also targets broader issues within the Lake Arthur Police Department. Navarre accuses the department of maintaining policies that encourage false arrests and excessive force as part of their standard operating procedures. He claims there is a "pattern" or "custom" within the department that violates citizens' constitutional rights. Additionally, he alleges failures in training and supervision contributed to his injuries.
Navarre seeks declaratory relief along with compensatory damages for physical injuries and emotional distress caused by these alleged violations. He also requests punitive damages against all defendants involved to address what he describes as deliberate indifference to constitutional rights.
Representing Cole Navarre is attorney Andrew Bougard from The Bougard Law Office LLC based in Jennings, Louisiana. As this case progresses through court proceedings under Case ID: 2:25-cv-00116 before judges yet unnamed in documents provided thus far.