LA MESA (NEWS 8) - A federal lawsuit was filed in court on Thursday against the City of La Mesa on behalf of a former Helix High School student.
The event at the center of the lawsuit took place in January when Helix staff called police after 17-year-old Brianna Bell, who was on "suspended status," would allegedly not comply with directions to leave school grounds. Officer Scott Wulfing reportedly tried to get the Bell to leave voluntarily, then ordered her to do so.
According to La Mesa police, when Bell refused to cooperate, Wulfing arrested her and placed her in handcuffs.
Video surfaced showing Wulfing slamming Bell to the ground while handcuffed - causing outrage from the community.
"I can't event put into words how I feel. I just feel so hurt that this happens all the time. That my situation as horrific as it is, is not unique. I feel powerless," Bell told News 8 in February.
Wulfing was placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of a third party investigation.
The lawsuit alleges that the La Mesa Police Department resource officer, Wulfing, used excessive force against Brianna Bell. According to the lawsuit, resource Officer Wulfing's excessive force violated Bell's civil rights, inflicted emotional distress and committed assault and battery against her.
The City of La Mesa said it is in the process of evaluating the lawsuit and will respond accordingly.
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