On Friday, February 7, 2025, U.S. District Court Judge Reed O'Connor dismissed claims against Tarrant County in a civil lawsuit filed by the family of Anthony Johnson, Jr. The lawsuit alleged unconstitutional use of force, failure to train employees, and failure to provide medical care in connection with Johnson’s death while in custody.
"Anyone can file a lawsuit and make unfounded claims against a person or organization," said Tarrant County Sheriff Bill Waybourn. "Fortunately, our justice system requires evidence to support those allegations."
Judge O'Connor ruled that the plaintiffs failed to present evidence supporting claims that Johnson’s death resulted from systemic issues within the jail, including overcrowding, unconstitutional use-of-force policies, or deliberate indifference to medical care. The court also found that no specific county policies were identified as violating Johnson’s constitutional rights.
The ruling further dismissed claims against six detention officers, determining they were not responsible for Johnson's death through excessive force or medical neglect. The lawsuit also named several jailers who were not present at the time of Johnson’s death.
"I'm grateful that Judge O'Connor was able to see through the false and misleading accusations brought forth and dismiss the claims against our detention officers, myself, and Tarrant County," Sheriff Waybourn stated.
Sheriff Waybourn acknowledged the tragedy of any in-custody death, stating, "All loss of life is tragic, and we never want to see anyone die in the Tarrant County Jail."
