In a tragic incident that has sparked widespread attention, the family of Steven Jones has enlisted the help of renowned civil rights attorney Ben Crump after Jones was fatally shot by police in Hartford during a mental health crisis. This incident unfolded in February when Jones, armed with a knife, was confronted by officers.
At a news conference held at the Phillips Metropolitan CME Church in Hartford, Crump was joined by the Jones family and Scot X. Esdaile, president of the NAACP’s Connecticut State Conference. Crump passionately emphasized their pursuit of justice for Jones, highlighting the need for accountability and legal action against the city of Hartford.
The confrontation began when a family member called 911, reporting that Jones had harmed himself and was armed. Body camera footage reveals Jones advancing toward officers, who repeatedly asked him to drop the knife. Despite attempts to de-escalate the situation, Officer Joseph Magnano arrived and, after ordering Jones to drop the weapon, fired nine shots.
Crump criticized the actions as unnecessary and unconstitutional, noting that the officers on the scene had been engaging with Jones for several minutes before the shooting. He described the incident as a failure to handle a mental health crisis with appropriate care.
Jones was taken to Saint Francis Hospital, where he passed away on March 2. His sister, Audrey Jones, expressed her heartbreak and regret for calling for help, emphasizing her brother's compassionate nature and his struggles with mental health.
The autopsy confirmed that Jones died from gunshot wounds, and his death was ruled a homicide. Crump questioned the criminal culpability, urging a thorough investigation and accountability for those involved.
This incident marks the second police-involved shooting in Hartford in February related to mental health crises. The first involved Everard Walker, who was also shot after displaying threatening behavior during a family intervention.
Esdaile voiced concerns over the lack of compassion shown in these situations, advocating for systemic change in how law enforcement handles mental health crises. The NAACP has pledged ongoing support for the Jones family, emphasizing the need for a long-term fight for justice and reform.
Ben Crump, known for representing families in high-profile cases like George Floyd and Breonna Taylor, continues to be a pivotal figure in advocating for civil rights and justice in such critical cases.