California town demands justice after homeless man’s death

The World

Last month, six police officers in Fullerton, Calif., attacked 37-year-old Kelly Thomas, a homeless man with mental health problems. Witnesses say the police used excessive and brutal force in their attack, tasering Kelly at least five times. Thomas died later in hospital. Now, his father and Fullerton residents are demanding justice for his death, as evidence builds that police were overly forceful. Two videos uploaded to YouTube and Fullerton-based websites  show  witnesses’ reaction to the police action. In one video, the clicking sound of a Taser can be heard. Ron Thomas, the father of Kelly Thomas, is  a former deputy sheriff in Orange County, California, is seeking justice for his son.  Tracy Wood, a senior journalist with Voice of OC, speaks about what’s happening in Fullerton.

Help keep The World going strong!

The article you just read is free because dedicated readers and listeners like you chose to support our nonprofit newsroom. Our team works tirelessly to ensure you hear the latest in international, human-centered reporting every weekday. But our work would not be possible without you. We need your help.

Make a gift today to help us reach our $25,000 goal and keep The World going strong. Every gift will get us one step closer.