Indianapolis police officers file lawsuit alleging they were retaliated against after reporting sergeant

Two Indianapolis police officers filed a lawsuit against the department and its chief this week, alleging they were retaliated against after reporting their sergeant – who is accused of stomping on a handcuffed man’s face on Monument Circle last year.

Matthew Shores and Christopher Kibbey – officers who assisted during the incident –  filed the federal suit.They reported Sgt. Eric Huxley, who is charged with official misconduct and battery with moderate bodily injury.

The incident took place on Sept. 24 of last year on Monument Circle, when officers responded to complaints of a man, identified as Jermaine Vaughn, acting disorderly.

Body-worn camera footage shows Huxley kick Vaughn in the face while he is being placed under arrest and in handcuffs. Huxley can be heard repeatedly saying, “You’re done” to Vaughn after kicking him.

Officers arrested Vaughn for disorderly conduct. IMPD said no medical attention was deemed necessary for Vaughn at the time.

IMPD Chief Randal Taylor held a press conference a few weeks later on Oct. 12, announcing that Huxley had been placed on administrative leave and the use of force was under investigation.

According to the lawsuit, Shores and Kibbey allege that after reporting Huxley, they faced retaliation. They allege they were placed on administrative leave and duties, not allowed to work overtime, and ridiculed by the chief and their superiors, among other allegations.

They further allege in the lawsuit that they are seen as untrustworthy by other members of the department since reporting Huxley, and have been treated with “disdain.”

Shores and Kibbey are seeking compensatory, punitive and general damages, and legal fees.

IMPD said the department has no comment on the case as it is an ongoing investigation.