Vikings DT Johnson sues city over restaurant incident
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Sep 7, 2014; St. Louis, MO, USA; Minnesota Vikings defensive tackle Tom Johnson (92) defends against St. Louis Rams running back Benny Cunningham (36) during the second half at the Edward Jones Dome. The Vikings defeated the Rams 34-6. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports
MINNEAPOLIS -- Minnesota Vikings defensive tackle Tom Johnson is suing Minneapolis and two of its police officers, accusing them of violating his civil rights by using a chemical spray and stun gun on him during a 2014 incident at a downtown nightclub.
The lawsuit was filed in federal court Friday. It alleges Johnson was the victim of excessive force and false arrest.
When Johnson was arrested, authorities said he ignored commands to leave the Seven restaurant at closing. A jury acquitted him in 15 minutes in June.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}The city attorney's office says it's reviewing the lawsuit. Police union head Bob Kroll says the officers' actions were justified.
The suit seeks unspecified damages in excess of $75,000 and an order for the police department to discipline the officers and change its stun-gun policies.