Pastor Files Civil Lawsuit After Suffering Brutal Beating By Police

The story of police brutality continues as Reverend John Michael Helmiere, a Seattle pastor, was brutally beaten during a protest. Believing his constitutional rights were violated, the pastor filed a civil rights lawsuit against Seattle law enforcement. Helmiere said this is less about individual officers and more about the system as a whole.

The incident took place outside of Harbor Island pier during a protest in December 2011. The United Methodist minister alleged he was subjected to excessive force, wrongful arrest and malicious prosecution. He was dragged by cops, thrown to the ground and viciously beaten by the officer. Helmiere was left bloodied with bruises and cuts on his face.

The Yale Divinity graduate said he feels obligated to tell his story and to hold those who have pledged to protect accountable. Helmiere said Jesus, who is his example, confronted injustice when he saw

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