Michigan Suit Filed in Stun Gun Death

A lawsuit has been filed by the family of a southwest Michigan man who died in 2009 following a confrontation with two police officers who subdued him with stun guns.

The Grand Rapids Press reports the lawsuit by family members of 30-year-old Matthew Bolick was filed Tuesday in U.S. District Court against East Grand Rapids, its public safety director and the officers who subdued him Nov. 16, 2009.

The lawsuit claims police used excessive force and acted with gross negligence in dealing with Bolick, who had psychological problems.

John Gillooly, an attorney for the city, said the city believes there was “no wrongful conduct” by the officers. He said a vigorous defense was planned.

Police were cleared of criminal wrongdoing in the case by Kent County Prosecutor William Forsyth.