Mother files lawsuit after teen shot by Fort Wayne police

FORT WAYNE, Ind. (AP) - A Fort Wayne police officer who shot and seriously injured a 17-year-old boy in June is being sued by the victim's mother for allegedly using excessive force in the incident.

Gina Dodson filed a lawsuit Wednesday against Officer Robert Hollo on behalf of her son, identified as J.D. The suit claims Hollo used excessive force on a teen who didn't commit a crime.

Dodson's attorney Richard A. Waples said during a news conference Thursday that he will also sue the city of Fort Wayne Police Department for battery. Waples said state law mandates a 90-day waiting period before the suit against the city can be filed.

Authorities said Hollo was investigating a recent string of shootings involving teenagers when three teenagers approached his unmarked car on June 21. The teens fled when Hollo informed them he was a cop. Hollo gave chase and then shot J.D. in the back after he claimed to see a gun. A weapon wasn't found on the teen.

Dodson said the bullet is still in J.D.'s back because it's too close to his spine to remove without further injury.

"I feel it was wrong....excessive," Dodson said during the press conference Thursday. "You can't just shoot people down like they was animals."

Waples said the teen can walk but has nerve damage that causes tingling and numbness in his legs. He said J.D. will need physical therapy.

Dodson's lawsuit seeks compensatory and punitive damages against Officer Hollo. The exact monetary amount isn't specified.

Fort Wayne police didn't immediately respond to The Associated Press' calls seeking comment on the litigation Thursday.