On May 4, 2018, plaintiff Craig Williams left his car running outside of a 7-Eleven, in Sacramento, while he went inside the convenience store to make a purchase. Leaving a car running in California is against the law and can result in fines and even arrest, but Williams was allegedly unaware of that. As a result, Sacramento Police Officer Corey Johnson approached Williams about the running vehicle, and an argument ensued. Williams was ultimately thrown to the ground and arrested by Johnson. The District Attorney dropped all of the charges against Williams. However, Williams claimed he suffered to his back as a result of the incident with Johnson. Williams sued the arresting officer, Johnson, and the officer’s employer, the city of Sacramento. Williams alleged that his civil and constitutional rights were violated by Johnson’s actions, which constituted excessive force, unreasonable search and seizure, wrongful detainment, and false arrest. Williams also alleged that Johnson wrongfully denied him medical care actions and that the city was negligent in its training of Johnson, making it liable for Johnson’s actions. Defense counsel contended that Johnson attempted to explain the law to Williams, but that Williams became argumentative and questioned the request to hand over his driver’s license. Counsel asserted that as a result, Johnson attempted to detain Williams, but that Williams resisted, which led to William’s arrest. Counsel further asserted that any force used was appropriate and due to Williams resisting arrest., Williams claimed that a previous back injury was aggravated during the arrest. He also claimed he suffered from emotional distress as a result of the incident. Williams sought recovery of damages for his emotional pain and suffering. He also initially sought recovery of more than $100,000 in compensatory damages, including lost wages, medical costs and attorney fees, as well as sought recovery of punitive damages.