Seeking change, family of Chad Breinholt files civil suit against WVC police

WEST VALLEY CITY, Utah — It’s been two years since Chad Breinholt was shot and killed while in the custody of West Valley City police. Now, Breinholt’s mother told KSL TV reporter Garna Mejia that she’s filed a civil lawsuit against at least five officers, the West Valley Police Department, and the city.

“We have no choice but to file these civil suits,” said Susan Neese. One month ago, the Salt Lake County District Attorney ruled that the police shooting that killed Chad Breinholt was justified.

Breinholt was in police custody on Aug. 22, 2019, after they said he showed up at his girlfriend’s place of employment and caused trouble. The family says the police had been told that he’d overdosed on his medication and that he needed help.

The lawsuit alleges that instead of getting him help, police arrested Breinholt. The suit also alleges police taunted the 32-year-old man and otherwise mistreated him for hours before the shooting.

The family says they believe officers escalated a completely preventable situation.

KSL TV reporter Garna Mejia’s full story can be heard in the video above. You can also read more here. 

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