Gurnee police sued by man claiming excessive force

A federal lawsuit was filed Friday on behalf of a 37-year-old man who Gurnee police said was shot by an officer after refusing demands to drop a knife outside his home Aug. 22.

Excessive force is alleged in the suit lodged against the unnamed Gurnee police officer on behalf of Chaz Altman in U.S. District Court. Police said Altman argued with his wife, Gina Gaffke, and walked outside with a knife. Authorities said Altman kept advancing toward officers and refused to drop the blade when he was shot three times by an officer.

Chicago attorney Gregory E. Kulis filed the complaint. Gaffke also was listed as a plaintiff against defendant "P.O. John Doe."