A Hurst woman has engaged a prominent civil rights attorney as she contemplates legal action against the Hurst Police Department, following what she describes as a violent arrest during a traffic stop. The incident has sparked significant attention, as contrasting narratives emerge from the woman and the local police regarding the events that unfolded.
On January 16, Taneisha Thompson was pulled over by an officer for allegedly speeding in a school zone. Body camera footage released by the Hurst Police Department captures the moment when Thompson was issued a traffic citation after a brief interaction. In the video, Thompson is seen throwing the ticket back at the officer, which prompted the officer, aided by another officer, to arrest her. During the arrest, Thompson was forcefully removed from her vehicle and onto the ground, while her child was present in the passenger seat.
Considering legal action, Thompson has enlisted the services of civil rights attorney Lee Merritt. She claims to have sustained a black eye, a lip injury requiring stitches, and multiple bruises as a result of the incident. During a press conference, Thompson expressed her determination to seek justice, stating, “I am here today because this is bigger than me—this is about all of us. It is about ensuring de-escalation, about prioritizing the safety of every citizen, so that no one else endures what I did.” She emphasized the importance of the support she has received and her unwillingness to be silenced.
Merritt addressed questions from reporters during the press conference, advising on the appropriate response to contentious police encounters. He remarked, “I tell my clients, I tell the public in general, it’s not best to litigate a case on the side of the road. If you’re upset about a police encounter, hold your peace, hire an attorney, file a complaint with the police department later.” He also noted that while individuals have the right to express frustration, it is not advisable to be rude to law enforcement.
In contrast, the Hurst Police Department is standing firmly behind the officer involved. Police Chief Billy Keadle stated that Corporal Morgan acted in accordance with the law and departmental policies. Following Thompson’s formal complaint regarding excessive force, an investigation was conducted but concluded that her claims were unfounded.
Alex del Carmen, a criminologist at Tarleton State University, reviewed the footage and supported the officer’s actions as lawful. He noted, “What I said after reviewing the entire footage was that the woman was very disrespectful of the officer during the entire exchange. Further, that the officer, up to the point of handing the ticket to her, was very respectful, professional and showed restraint.” Del Carmen explained that the officer had several options after Thompson threw the citation, but chose to issue a verbal command for her to exit the vehicle, which she refused. Consequently, physical force was applied, which, although regrettable, he deemed lawful under the circumstances.
