Suing Police for PTSD. Our client, Rick*, who had travelled from Perth to the Gold Coast* for a peaceful protest, decided to camp with friends in 2023.*
He was suddenly accused of trespassing by police officers. Despite his cooperation, he was forcibly arrested while wearing only his swimmers, locked in a police vehicle, and suffered a panic attack due to his pre-existing heart condition and claustrophobia. In the end, Rick was released without charge and was later diagnosed with PTSD.
Brooke Collins at O’Brien Criminal & Civil Solicitors acted on his behalf, ultimately securing compensation for false imprisonment, assault, battery, and psychological injury.
Suing Police for PTSD
Following the incident, Rick sought medical help and was diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) directly resulting from his arrest. He also developed heightened claustrophobia, severe anxiety, distrust of police, and significant emotional distress.
Rick, represented by O’Brien Criminal & Civil Solicitors, pursued legal action for assault, battery, false imprisonment, and personal injury. The claim highlighted that the police officers acted unlawfully. Also, the officers had no reasonable grounds to arrest or detain him, violating his civil liberties in an “entirely unlawful” manner.
Read our other successful case studies for suing the police and the state.
Successful outcome of the case
The case concluded successfully in Rick’s favour. He secured compensation for his false imprisonment, physical discomfort, mental anguish, PTSD diagnosis, and the humiliation he endured during the ordeal. His victory underscores the importance of standing up for civil liberties and holding authorities accountable for unlawful conduct.
Need Help With Suing Police for PTSD, Misconduct or False Arrest?
If you or someone you know has suffered an unlawful arrest, excessive police force, or psychological injury from police conduct, O’Brien Criminal & Civil Solicitors can help you seek justice.
Contact us today for a confidential consultation and take the first step towards resolution.
📞 Call (02) 9261 4281
💬 Or enquire online for a confidential consultation.
*We always change identifiable details in our case studies to protect client confidentiality.
