A New Orleans resident has filed a civil rights lawsuit alleging egregious misconduct by a local police officer. Isais Benitez initiated the complaint on March 5, 2025, in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana against Officer Tyler Sirois, Superintendent Ann Kirkpatrick, and the City of New Orleans.
The lawsuit stems from an incident on March 4, 2024, when Benitez was involved in a car accident requiring police assistance. Officer Sirois responded to the scene and later made an unannounced visit to Benitez's home under dubious circumstances. According to the complaint, Sirois arrived at Benitez's residence without a warrant or reasonable suspicion of criminal activity and coerced him into removing his clothing under the guise of conducting an "insurance check." The encounter escalated as Sirois allegedly entered Benitez's home and conducted an invasive search, leaving Benitez feeling humiliated and violated. Following this incident, Benitez noticed Sirois surveilling his home, causing significant emotional distress.
Benitez claims that these actions violated his Fourth and Fourteenth Amendment rights under the U.S. Constitution. The lawsuit also accuses Superintendent Ann Kirkpatrick of failing to properly supervise and discipline Officer Sirois despite his history of complaints within the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD). Public records reveal multiple allegations against Sirois dating back to 2019, including unprofessional conduct and excessive force.
In addition to federal claims under 42 U.S.C. §1983, Benitez seeks relief for violations of Louisiana state laws. He is asking for compensatory damages for mental anguish and emotional distress, punitive damages due to malicious conduct by Officer Sirois, attorney fees under 42 U.S.C. §1988, and declaratory relief stating that the actions were unconstitutional.
Representing Isais Benitez are attorneys Glenn C. McGovern, Callan J. Johns, and Andrew Maberry from Metairie, Louisiana. The case is presided over by Judge Lance M. Africk with Magistrate Judge Karen Wells Roby handling preliminary matters under Case ID: 2:25-cv-00432-LMA-KWR.