LAWRENCE — The city of Lawrence is arguing that a man who was shot by its officers caused his own injuries by refusing to follow directions during a confrontation with police.
Akira Lewis was shot in May 2018 by an officer who said she mistakenly drew her gun when she thought she was using a Taser.
He has sued two officers, the city of Lawrence, the police chief and its police department. He alleges the officers used excessive force and weren’t properly trained.
In a response filed in federal court, the city contends Lewis “unreasonably” refused to take actions to avoid harm.