Shevoy Brown, a former officer with the Hapeville Police Department in Georgia, faces charges of using excessive force. He is accused of repeatedly tasing a handcuffed detainee arrested for trespassing. The indictment alleges that Brown's actions were inconsistent with the professional standards expected of law enforcement officers.
Acting United States Attorney Richard S. Moultrie, Jr. stated, "Our local law enforcement partners employ dedicated officers who risk their lives and safety every day to help make our district safer. This indictment alleges conduct by a former officer that runs counter to the culture of professionalism and public service that epitomizes the work performed by police officers in and outside our district."
FBI Atlanta Special Agent in Charge Paul Brown emphasized the importance of humane treatment for those under arrest, saying, "People being held under arrest have the right to be treated humanely. The FBI and our law enforcement partners will continue to protect the civil rights of the public and ensure those who abuse their power are held responsible."
According to information provided by Acting U.S. Attorney Moultrie, on June 3, 2024, officers from the Hapeville Police Department arrested a man for trespassing and brought him to headquarters. The man was placed alone in a small holding cell and handcuffed to a stationary bench when Shevoy Brown allegedly tased him at least six times without legal justification. This resulted in injuries requiring medical attention. Additionally, Brown is accused of writing a false use of force report to cover up his actions, leading to an obstruction of justice charge.
Brown was arraigned before Chief U.S. Magistrate Judge Russell G. Vineyard after being indicted by a federal grand jury on February 12, 2025.
The public is reminded that an indictment only contains charges; Brown is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation is leading the investigation with assistance from the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Brent Alan Gray and Bret R. Hobson are prosecuting this case.
For more information, contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office via email at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or call (404) 581-6280. Additional details can be found on their website: http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.