Cop Sent Intimate Texts and Scrolled TikTok as Man Suffered from Overdose in Police Car, Wrongful Death Lawsuit Claims

**Police Officer Allegedly Engaged in Personal Activities While Man Suffered from Overdose in Patrol Car: Lawsuit**

In a shocking incident, a police officer from the Coos Bay Police Department in Oregon is facing allegations of neglect after a man reportedly suffered from a methamphetamine overdose in the back of a patrol car. The incident has led to a wrongful death lawsuit being filed against the City of Coos Bay and three police officers involved.

According to reports, the officers failed to recognise the signs of 33-year-old Nathan Bradford Smith’s overdose when he was placed in the patrol car on July 7, 2024. The lawsuit claims that officers Benjamin Martin, Tristan Smith, and Wesley O’Connor neglected to provide immediate medical assistance to Nathan, leading to his tragic death. The family of the deceased has accused the officers of negligence, abuse of a vulnerable person, and deliberate indifference, seeking unspecified damages for their actions.

The lawsuit also sheds light on the events leading up to Nathan’s death. Nathan, who reportedly battled schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, was found unconscious in the patrol car by Officer Benjamin Martin, who then administered Narcan in an attempt to combat the drug overdose. Unfortunately, Nathan was pronounced dead at a local hospital shortly after.

State police reports indicate that Nathan had multiple encounters with police officers on the day of his arrest for disorderly conduct. Despite displaying signs of distress and struggling to breathe while in police custody, Nathan did not receive the necessary medical attention in time to prevent his untimely death.

The incident has sparked outrage and demands for accountability from the community, with Nathan’s family seeking justice for what they believe was a preventable tragedy. The lawsuit highlights the critical need for law enforcement officers to recognise and respond promptly to medical emergencies, especially when individuals are in their custody.

The delay in providing medical assistance to Nathan has raised concerns about the handling of vulnerable individuals by law enforcement officers. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of proper training and protocols for officers when dealing with individuals experiencing health crises.

The tragic death of Nathan Bradford Smith has brought to light the challenges faced by individuals battling substance abuse and mental health issues. It underscores the need for a compassionate and effective response from law enforcement agencies to ensure the well-being and safety of all individuals, regardless of their circumstances.

As investigations into the incident continue, the community awaits answers and hopes for accountability for the officers involved. The case serves as a sobering reminder of the responsibilities and duties that law enforcement officers hold in protecting and serving the community, especially in moments of crisis and vulnerability.

In light of this tragic event, it is essential for law enforcement agencies to review and enhance their protocols for handling individuals in distress to prevent similar incidents in the future. The pursuit of justice for Nathan Bradford Smith and his family is a critical step towards upholding accountability and ensuring that such neglectful actions are not repeated.

The wrongful death lawsuit against the City of Coos Bay and the police officers involved serves as a call for transparency, accountability, and reform within law enforcement agencies to prevent further tragedies and uphold the trust and integrity of the justice system. The community stands united in demanding justice for Nathan and advocating for systemic changes to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and swift action in responding to medical emergencies, highlighting the need for enhanced training and protocols within law enforcement agencies to address health crises effectively. The tragic loss of Nathan Bradford Smith has sparked a crucial conversation about accountability and reform in law enforcement practices, with hopes for a more compassionate and just system moving forward.