Lawsuit Claims Man Was Beaten, Wrongfully Arrested During Baltimore Riots

BALTIMORE (WJZ)—A Baltimore man is suing after he claims he was wrongfully arrested, beaten and imprisoned during the Baltimore riots without probable cause.

WJZ's Amy Yensi has more on the investigation

Branden Owens says he was beaten and arrested by Baltimore City police for no reason which is why he's now suing the department and city.

The civil complaint obtained by WJZ details how Officer Phillip Meadows "struck Mr. Owens in the chest with his baton without reason or provocation."

And when asked for his badge number, "neither the commanding officer nor the officer who had assaulted him would provide it."

It happened in on April 27th, moments before looters and rioters wreaked havoc  at Mondawmin Mall.

Owens says he was asking a group of commanders if the supermarket was open. When a group of officers in riot gear began running past him, one of the officer struck him with the baton.

When Owens asked for the officer's badge number he was allegedly beaten further and then arrested.

According to the complaint, after being arrested, the officer says, "You wanted my badge number? It's 666. I'm the devil."

Owens was taken to Central Booking where he was held for two days before being release. No charges have been filed in the incident.

He's been treated for multiple contusion, lower back muscle spasms and bruised wrists

"The police should be held accountable when they abuse their authority," said Owens' attorney, Andrew Freeman.

Owens says he tried contacting internal affairs but was unsuccessful. He has yet to be charged with any crime.

WJZ reached out to Baltimore Police and the city solicitor for a comment and have not received a response.