The attorneys for the family of a 19-year-old who was shot and killed by a Milwaukee County Sheriff's deputy called the dash camera video of the shooting a “smear campaign.”
Attorneys Jovan Blacknell and Ian Wallach are representing the family of Terry Williams, who was shot in the head by Deputy Michael Truax on June 19 after refusing to pull over near Water Tower Road and Lincoln Memorial Drive.
The attorneys are also representing Paula McEwen, the other person shot in the lakefront shooting. They released the following statement addressing the release of the dashcam video from MCSO on Friday:
The Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Department has released dash cam video and appears to be engaging in a smear campaign against Mr. Williams, who was killed by Deputy Truax and cannot defend against their allegations. The Audi is seen fleeing from police and it is understandable that tensions were high. But the video also shows that Mr. Williams was not trying to run down anyone when Deputy Traux began shooting. When the smoke from the shot of Deputy Truax is most visible...the SUV is barely moving and the wheels are pointed to the right. When the car turns left, Mr. Williams was already being shot at, and potentially no longer conscious. The autopsy will provide further information.
Ms. McEwan and the family of Mr. Williams request that the Milwaukee County Sheriff's Department end its attempt to vilify Mr. Williams, who was killed by one of their deputies, and cease its efforts to influence public opinion until the Waukesha County Sheriff's Department completes its investigation. Ms. McEwen also repeats her request that her personal property, including her phone, be returned, so that she may use her photos to prepare for Mr. Williams' obituary and funeral.
