Judge Lets Burn Victim Pursue Excessive Force Claim | Phoenix News

A federal judge has cleared the way for a Phoenix woman to sue police over severe burns suffered during an arrest in June 2024, ruling officers not protected by qualified immunity—but dismissed her false arrest claims. Held down on 180-degree pavement for two minutes, Clarissa Sabedra wasn’t resisting violently; she didn’t flee or reach for a weapon. While officers had probable cause to arrest her based on a 911 call, the judge found the force used may have exceeded what was necessary. Sabedra’s team can now pursue damages for her burn unit treatment, and may amend her complaint to include city liability. Phoenix officials remain silent as the case moves forward, spotlighting the nuanced legal terrain of excessive force claims. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/4c5f47d425455d3f