News

Actions

Tanisha Anderson family to meet with special prosecutor over potential criminal charges for cops

Anderson died while being restrained by police
Posted at 5:38 PM, Apr 24, 2017
and last updated 2017-04-24 17:38:28-04

The family of Tanisha Anderson will meet with a special prosecutor Thursday to discuss potential criminal charges against two Cleveland Police officers involved in her death more than two years ago.

The family called for mental health assistance for Anderson in November, 2014 but instead of an ambulance, Cleveland police arrived at the family home.

RELATED: Anderson family reacts to report filed by special investigator, motion for summary judgment

Judge rules that medical examiner can't testify in Tanisha Anderson case

Cleveland officers respond to lawsuit, say Tanisha Anderson contributed to own death

The 37-year-old woman suffered from bi-polar disorder but instead of providing mental health assistance, Anderson was handcuffed on a cold, icy sidewalk.

A medical examiner ruling at the time found she died "while being restrained in a prone position".

The case is now being reviewed by a special prosecutor with the Ohio Attorney General's Office for potential criminal charges but the investigation has been hampered by numerous delays.

The Attorney General's Office confirmed the meeting, but said it was requested by family and the investigation itself is still ongoing--including ordering a review of the original autopsy and cause of death.

"If this was a civilian--it's over, you're charged, you're locked up," says Anderson's mother.

Cassandra Johnson says she wants justice for her daughter and believes police are being special consideration.

Both officers remain on the force with no discipline.