Maine Man Sues State Police for $100 Million Over ‘Brutal’ Arrest

A Limerick, Maine man is suing state police officers and the agency for more than $100 million, claiming he was violently assaulted during an arrest last year.

Justin Savage and his girlfriend, Shawna Morse, filed a federal lawsuit against the state of Maine, the Maine State Police, agency leader Col. William Ross, and three officers involved in the arrest. The suit alleges troopers used excessive force, leaving Savage with serious injuries.

According to court filings, troopers responded to a report of a domestic assault in March 2024. Police said Savage became combative during the incident, breaking one officer’s ankle and biting another’s hand while resisting arrest. Savage was charged with domestic violence assault, assault on a police officer, refusing to submit to arrest, and disorderly conduct.

A booking photo later showed Savage with severe facial injuries, including a black eye and split lip. His lawsuit claims he was fully restrained in handcuffs when troopers body slammed him, punched him repeatedly, placed him in a spit hood that made it difficult to breathe, and continued to strike him while he was immobilized.

Video reviewed by Maine’s Total Coverage shows troopers handcuffing Savage and then striking him while he was on the ground. All charges against Savage were dismissed on April 15, 2025. Charges against Morse, who was also arrested during the incident, were dismissed earlier that year.

Maine State Police said an internal review determined the officers’ actions were “lawful, justified and proper,” citing Savage’s alleged resistance. The agency said all reports, body camera footage, and use-of-force documentation were reviewed by supervisors and the Office of Professional Standards.

Savage and Morse are requesting a jury trial, with their attorneys arguing the case represents a clear abuse of power that caused lasting physical and emotional harm.

Credit: CNN Newsource

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