Kosloski Law Files Civil Rights Lawsuit Against Denver Police Officers who Violently Stopped and Shot a Gun at Couple Stopped at a Stop Light

A lawsuit has been filed today in the District Court for the City and County of Denver by plaintiffs Jessica Sjostrom and Rex Hickman, alleging excessive use of force, unlawful search, and unconstitutional seizure by members of the Denver Police Department. The incident, which occurred on May 26, 2024, at approximately 6PM, is described as an egregious example of reckless police behavior and a violation of constitutional rights.

The complaint outlines a disturbing series of events in which Denver police officers mistook Ms. Sjostrom and Mr. Hickman, who were driving a maroon Mercury with Kansas license plates, for suspects driving a red Saturn with Colorado plates. Despite significant and readily observable differences between the two vehicles, officers conducted a “felony traffic stop,” pointed firearms at the couple and ultimately shot at them without justification.

The lawsuit asserts that officers violently removed Ms. Sjostrom and Mr. Hickman from their car, searched both the vehicle and their persons without consent or a warrant, and subjected them to unnecessary physical and emotional harm. Despite the lack of probable cause or evidence connecting the plaintiffs to any alleged crime, officers continued with their unlawful arrest.

“This case demonstrates a shocking disregard for human life and basic constitutional protections,” said attorney Jason Kosloski, who represents the plaintiffs. “Ms. Sjostrom and Mr. Hickman were simply in the wrong place at the wrong time—driving in a vehicle that bore no reasonable resemblance to the suspect’s car other than a similar color.”

The lawsuit names officers Kirk Malone, Brayan Silva, Brian Camozzi, Samuel Lass, Cory Stuper, and an unidentified “Halo” camera operator as defendants. It seeks compensatory damages for physical injuries, emotional distress, and other losses suffered by the plaintiffs. Additionally, the suit requests injunctive relief to revoke the defendants’ P.O.S.T. certifications to prevent future violations of constitutional rights.

“Our lives changed in an instant,” said Ms. Sjostrom and Mr. Hickman in a joint statement. “What began as an ordinary day ended in trauma and fear at the hands of those sworn to protect us. We hope this lawsuit shines a light on the dangers of unchecked police violence and helps prevent others from experiencing what we endured.”

“Police accountability is essential to maintaining public trust and ensuring safety for all residents of Denver. This lawsuit seeks justice not only for our clients but also as a step toward systemic change,” added Kosloski.

The lawsuit is brought under Colorado’s Enhancing Law Enforcement Integrity Act, a landmark law enacted in 2020 that eliminated qualified immunity for police officers accused of violating state constitutional rights. This act ensures that victims of police misconduct have a clear avenue to seek justice and hold law enforcement accountable for their actions.