A New Jersey woman has filed a lawsuit against the state police, claiming she was wrongfully arrested and treated like a criminal while suffering a medical emergency. The incident, which took place in 2023, has sparked outrage and renewed discussions about police training in handling medical crises.
The Incident
According to the lawsuit, 55-year-old Mary Johnson was driving on a highway when she suffered a sudden stroke, causing her to lose control and hit a guardrail. Instead of receiving immediate medical help, she was allegedly arrested by a state trooper, who accused her of driving under the influence.
Dashcam footage from the officer’s vehicle reportedly shows Johnson struggling to communicate and move properly. Despite these clear signs of distress, the trooper handcuffed her and took her into custody. It wasn’t until hours later that she was taken to a hospital, where doctors confirmed she had experienced a stroke.
Legal Battle and Public Reaction
Johnson’s lawsuit argues that the officer failed to recognize her medical emergency, leading to unnecessary suffering. Her lawyer claims this case highlights a broader issue of inadequate police training.
The New Jersey State Police have declined to comment on the pending litigation, but advocacy groups have demanded policy changes to ensure officers receive better training in identifying medical emergencies.
A Call for Change
Medical experts emphasize the importance of rapid stroke treatment, as delays can lead to severe, lasting damage. Johnson, who has since recovered partially, says she hopes her case leads to reforms that prevent others from experiencing similar injustices.
