Clifford Law Offices Files Lawsuit Against Blue Island in Death of Grandfather
Press Release, 11/18/2004Statement read by the Manrique Family
Thursday, November 18, 2004 Clifford Law Offices filed a civil lawsuit in the Cook County Circuit Court against the city of Blue Island and its Police Department for the death of a shy 74-year-old Hispanic grandfather who was killed by members of the police force a month ago.
Antonio Manrique was taking a walk in the southern suburb when, without provocation, police tackled him to the ground, maliciously hit him with their fists and batons, breaking numerous ribs that led to blood clots in his lungs and his death four days later, according to the complaint.
Timothy Tomasik, attorney at Clifford Law Offices, and members of the Manrique family, including Manrique’s widow, Rebeca, attended a press conference on November 18th at Clifford Law Offices, 120 N. LaSalle St., 11th floor, Chicago.
The complaint alleges wilful and wanton conduct as well as violations of Manrique’s state and federal constitutional rights by the city of Blue Island and its Police Department as well as two officers, Charles Sykes and Berni Rzab. Antonio Manrique left nine children and 18 grandchildren.
