Jurors back officers in bar arrest lawsuit

By Adam Ashton
aashton@modbee.com

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A jury Wednesday rejected a Stockton woman's claim that Modesto police used excessive force when they arrested her at an 11th Street club in January 2007.

Margaret Shepherd had charged that police broke four of her ribs when they brought her into custody at the Copper Rhino about 1 a.m. on Jan. 14, 2007.

She further claimed that officers denied her medical assistance while she struggled to breathe in a police wagon after her arrest.

She reportedly approached officers in the club when one of her son's friends was ejected from the bar and a scuffle appeared to break out between security guards and her companions.

Modesto officials countered that police used reasonable force to subdue her in a volatile situation.

"These cases are always difficult for everyone concerned, but the police officers conducted themselves professionally throughout and it's gratifying to have that acknowledged," City Attorney Susana Alcala Wood said.

The trial lasted five days, with Shepherd, several police officers and Copper Rhino employees testifying at the U.S. District Court in Fresno.

Bee staff writer Adam Ashton can be reached at aashton@modbee.com or 578-2366.