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TODAY, ON APRIL 20, 2022, THE FAMILY OF ENOSA STRICKLAND JR. FILED A LAWSUIT IN UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT FOR THE WESTERN DISTRICT OF WASHINGTON AGAINST THE CITY OF AUBURN POLICE DEPARTMENT.

The lawsuit is based on the events of May 20, 2019 involving Auburn Officers Kenneth Lyman and Derek Morse. While EJ was face down on the pavement of a parking lot in Auburn, Washington, he was shot point-blank in the back of the head by Officer Kenneth Lyman. EJ died instantly.

The justification for the shooting, offered by Auburn Police Department and Officer Lyman, includes an allegation that EJ was in possession of Officer Lyman’s concealed, improperly secured, unauthorized and illegal dagger. The family brings claims of both negligence and unconstitutional excessive force.

The complaint also faults the city of Auburn for negligence and deliberate indifference in the training and supervision of its officers.

The Estate of Enosa Strickland Jr. is represented by his mother and father—Kathleen Keliikoa-Strickland and Enosa Strickland Sr.

This is a new chapter in the almost three-year search for truth, justice, and accountability from Auburn Police Department and Officer Lyman.

The legal team for this case includes Ed Moore, Gemma Zanowski, Furhad Sultani, and paralegal Krysta Renton.

For all media inquiries please reach out to our Outreach & Marketing Director Kassie Seaton at kassie@stritmatter.com or call Stritmatter Kessler Koehler Moore at (206) 448-1777.