On Oct. 4, 2017, plaintiff Gregory Lanier, an inmate at Twin Towers Correctional Facility, was taken to the ground by Deputy Gregory Afsharian. As a result, Lanier’s face struck a table in front of him. Lanier sued Afsharian; Afsharian’s supervisor, Sheriff Jim McDonnell (who was initially erroneously sued as “Chief Jim Donald;” and Afsharian’s employers, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and the county of Los Angeles. Lanier alleged that Afsharian’s actions constituted excessive force in violation of his civil and constitutional rights. Lanier also alleged that McDonnell, the sheriff’s department and the county failed to properly train McDonnell on tactics, making them liable for McDonnell’s actions. Defense counsel contended that Afsharian implemented a proper takedown technique when Lanier failed to follow multiple commands, became physically resistive to deputies, and appeared to be about to spit in the deputies’ faces. Thus, counsel asserted that reasonable and minimal force was used on Lanier., Lanier sustained a laceration to his bottom lip and facial contusions as a result of his face striking the table. He was taken to a hospital, where he received stitches to his bottom lip. Lanier sought recovery of damages for his pain and suffering.