Federal Lawsuit Filed Against Minneapolis and Former Officer for Sexual Assault of Minor

A federal lawsuit has been filed against former Minneapolis police officer David Edward Campbell and the City of Minneapolis, alleging sexual assault of a minor and violations of civil rights. The case brings to light serious concerns about law enforcement accountability and the protection of vulnerable individuals.

According to the complaint, Campbell repeatedly sexually assaulted a minor female while on duty and in uniform. The lawsuit claims that Campbell conducted unauthorized ride-alongs with the minor in his squad car, violating Minneapolis Police Department policies. These incidents were allegedly witnessed by other officers and supervisors but were neither reported nor investigated.

Campbell has since been convicted of multiple charges including 3rd Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct, 4th Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct, Terroristic Threats, and Stalking. He has served a prison sentence for these crimes.

The lawsuit seeks to hold both Campbell and the City of Minneapolis accountable for the trauma inflicted on the plaintiff and for failing to enforce department policies designed to prevent such abuses. Attorney Timothy Lessman, representing the plaintiff, emphasized the severity of the situation, stating, 'There is an inherent cruelty to these actions because they were committed by a person of authority, and because they were committed against a vulnerable young person.'

This case raises critical questions about the effectiveness of internal oversight within police departments and the mechanisms in place to protect citizens from abuse by those in positions of power. It underscores the need for rigorous enforcement of policies and procedures designed to prevent misconduct and protect vulnerable individuals.

The lawsuit's implications extend beyond the immediate parties involved, potentially influencing broader discussions on police reform, accountability measures, and the protection of civil rights. It may prompt reassessment of training protocols, supervision practices, and reporting mechanisms within law enforcement agencies across the country.

As this case progresses, it could set important precedents for how similar situations are handled in the future, potentially leading to stricter oversight and more robust protections for minors and other vulnerable populations in their interactions with law enforcement. The outcome may also impact public trust in police departments and shape future policies aimed at preventing abuse of power by officers.