Family of man shot, killed by JSO officer to file civil lawsuit

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The family of a man who was shot and killed by a Jacksonville police officer filed a civil lawsuit in his death.

Vernell Bing Jr., 22, was shot and killed by a Jacksonville Sheriff's officer in May.

Bing was shot in the head by an officer after he led police on a high-speed chase and hit a patrol car head on has died, according to authorities.

Vernell Bing Jr.

A 16-page civil lawsuit has been filed in the U.S. District Court, Middle District of Florida, on behalf of the family. There are five different accusations against the officer who shot Bing and Sheriff Mike Williams.

A group of attorneys, including John Lakin, said there seems to be abuse of law enforcement practice.

Lakin said they have requested documentation, evidence and have spoken to witnesses who say they saw the officer-involved shooting. Lakin said things are not adding up.

“I’m concerned that there is a video, perhaps out there, at the intersection of 9th and Liberty and I know there is a home I personality went to and it was facing that intersection. I know law enforcement was quickly out there and I don’t know where that video is,” Lakin said.

Vernell Bing Jr.'s father holds his grandson, Vernell Bing III, in the press conference.

Jacksonville Sheriff's Office released a statement about the family's intent to sue.

It reads:

The JSO has been made aware a news conference was held today by representatives for the family. Per our standing protocol, no comment is made on lawsuits/intent to sue statements.

With respect to the investigation, we await determination on the criminal case from the State Attorney's Office.

Regarding the use of surveillance cameras, we don't reveal the locations of surveillance cameras, with few exceptions including release for legal proceedings.

Lastly, some have inquired about the status of our pilot program for body cameras. We continue to talk to vendors and formulate our pilot program. We will keep you updated on developments regarding this project."

Action News Jax reporter Kaitlyn Chana was at the news conference on Thursday about the lawsuit. Watch CBS47 Action News Jax at 5 p.m. and follow her on Twitter @KaitlynANjax for the latest information.

Cox Media Group