Hawks’ Thabo Sefolosha sues five officers for April 2015 incident
Get breaking news and SI’s biggest stories instantly. Download the new Sports Illustrated app (iOS or Android) and personalize your experience by following your favorite teams and SI writers.
Atlanta Hawks swingman Thabo Sefolosha filed a civil suit Wednesday against five New York City police officers over an April 2015 arrest that left him with a broken leg.
ESPN’s Kevin Arnovitz reported the details of the lawsuit.
• MCCANN: Sefolosha vs. the NYPD: Breaking down the civil lawsuit
On April 8, 2015, Sefolosha was outside a Manhattan nightclub with teammate Pero Antic when officers claimed the two were interfering with a crime scene. Police arrested Sefolosha, who sustained a broken fibula while being handcuffed.
Sefolosha missed the rest of the regular season and the 2015 playoffs with the injury. A jury acquitted Sefolosha of all charges in October.
The lawsuit accuses the five arresting officers and the city of false arrest, excessive force, malicious prosecution and false imprisonment. Sefolosha filed a notice of claim last year setting $50 million as his ceiling for damages.
Open Floor: SI's NBA podcast
Sports Illustrated Podcast Network
Antic has also filed a lawsuit against the officers and the city.
Sefolosha is averaging 6.6 points and 4.5 rebounds per game for the Hawks so far this season.
