Episode Details

The family of Samuel “Big Sam” Elsworth Brown Jr. is suing Baltimore County over his death, alleging systemic racism and excessive force by police — a case that could hold the county accountable under a Monell claim. Brown, 56, died 11 days after a wellness check turned violent when Officer Derek Hadel punched him twice; body cam footage shows Brown swinging at the officer before collapsing with brain damage. The lawsuit cites decades of unconstitutional policing, including wrongful arrests and racial profiling, and cites ACLU data showing 26 deaths by county officers between 2015–2023. Hadel, previously cleared in another fatal pursuit and disciplined for a car crash and alleged racial slurs, remains central to the case. Brown’s children and mother lead the fight, vowing to keep pushing for justice until it’s won.

Listen in comfort:
Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn.

Advertise on DNN:
advertise@thednn.ai

This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.
Report issues to feedback@thednn.ai.

View sources & latest updates:
https://sources.thednn.ai/3d33e2bc05f7b54c