La’Nisha Hemingway’s Case: A Stand Against Wrongful Arrest and Civil Rights Violations
At Bailey Law Firm, we are committed to defending the rights of individuals and ensuring justice prevails. Recently, we took on a significant case that underscores our dedication to civil rights and holding authorities accountable for their actions. On behalf of our client, La’Nisha Hemingway, an 18-year-old North Myrtle Beach High School graduate, we have filed a federal civil rights lawsuit against the City of North Myrtle Beach and three of its police officers following a wrongful arrest that has garnered considerable media attention.
The Incident
On May 3, La’Nisha Hemingway was en route to meet friends at the beach when she was abruptly stopped by three officers from the North Myrtle Beach Police Department (NMBPD). According to our release, Hemingway was forcibly removed from her car, ordered to walk backwards at gunpoint, and then handcuffed. The officers quickly realized they had stopped the wrong vehicle but continued with the aggressive measures.
Bodycam footage from the incident reveals an officer stating, “That’s not it,” before pointing a gun towards Hemingway and her vehicle. Shockingly, at no point during the stop did the officers request Hemingway’s license or registration, nor did they ask for her name once she was released. It was only several days later that a report of the arrest was made.
The Emotional and Psychological Impact
Hemingway’s family has been deeply affected by the incident. At a recent press conference at North Myrtle Beach City Hall, Hemingway’s attorney, Tyler Bailey, described the profound trauma Hemingway experienced. Compounding the distress of the wrongful arrest is the fact that Hemingway’s father was a victim of gun violence, intensifying her emotional turmoil.
Dr. Aaron Cox, Hemingway’s uncle and a law enforcement professional with over 34 years of experience, criticized the officers’ actions, stating, “The police didn’t do stuff right from the beginning. People that should have been her protectors treated her like less than a human.” This sentiment was echoed by Hemingway’s grandmother, Janet Hemingway, who noted the severe change in La’Nisha’s demeanor since the incident and emphasized the need for justice.
Pursuing Justice
The failure to follow proper procedures, lack of immediate reporting, and the absence of an apology from the department have driven Hemingway’s family to seek legal recourse. We have filed a federal civil rights lawsuit demanding accountability and justice. Our primary demands include:
- Accountability for the Officers Involved: Holding the officers responsible for their actions.
- Enhanced Training for Police Officers: Ensuring officers receive comprehensive training on lawful stops and respectful interactions.
- Improved Use of License Plate Readers: Advocating for more rigorous protocols and training concerning the use of technology in policing.
Our Commitment
At Bailey Law Firm, we are dedicated to ensuring that justice is served for La’Nisha Hemingway and her family. This case highlights the critical need for accountability and reform within law enforcement agencies to prevent such traumatic incidents from occurring in the future.
As we continue to fight for the rights of those wrongfully arrested and mistreated, we invite you to follow this case and support our efforts to bring about meaningful change. Together, we can work towards a more just and equitable society.
For more information on this case and other civil rights matters, please visit our website or contact Bailey Law Firm directly. Stay updated by following us on Facebook, Twitter, Tiktok and LinkedIn.
