The Muhammad Law Center has filed a federal civil rights lawsuit against Lake County, Indiana and the Town of Winfield following a deeply troubling incident that exemplifies the ongoing crisis of racial profiling in American law enforcement.

On July 14, 2024, Airius Reed, a 31-year-old Black man, was subjected to unlawful detention and excessive force while visiting his girlfriend’s home in Crown Point, Indiana. Despite bearing no resemblance to a suspect description beyond his race, Mr. Reed was aggressively confronted, detained, and handcuffed. The officers’ actions escalated to terrorizing an entire Black family, including two young children, an elderly disabled man, and a mother – none of whom had committed any crime.

This case starkly illustrates how the mere presence of a Black person in a neighborhood can trigger aggressive police response, even when:

• The individual does not match the suspect description.
• Video evidence proves their innocence.
• They are lawfully present in their own home.
• They fully comply with officer commands.
• There is no evidence linking them to any crime.

The Fourth Amendment protects all Americans against unreasonable searches and seizures. Being Black is not probable cause. Living while Black is not suspicious activity. Having Black skin does not make someone more likely to be involved in criminal activity.

Through this lawsuit, we seek to:

• Hold law enforcement accountable for constitutional violations
• Challenge systemic racial profiling practices
• Protect Black families’ right to exist peacefully in their communities
• Secure justice for the trauma inflicted on innocent adults and children
• Drive institutional changes in police training and practices
• Reaffirm that civil rights apply equally to all Americans

This case represents more than an isolated incident – it reflects a pattern of law enforcement practices that must change. We invite you to stand with us in demanding equal justice and protection under the law for all Americans.

This case represents more than an isolated incident – it reflects a pattern of law enforcement practices that must change. We invite you to stand with us in demanding equal justice and protection under the law for all Americans.