Prison inmate files $20 million claim against Tacoma

TACOMA, — A state prison inmate has filed a $20 million claim against the city of Tacoma, saying a police sergeant used excessive force when shooting him multiple times two years ago.

The News-Tribune reported two Tacoma attorneys filed the claim last week on behalf of 21-year-old Tyler R. M

cDonald. The claim comes before a possible lawsuit.

Sgt. Darren Kelly shot McDonald on July 2009 in a Tacoma house after being dispatched to investigate a distraught person who was a suspect in an earlier shooting.

Tacoma police have released few details about the shooting. They say Kelly acted reasonably and within department guidelines.

City attorney Elizabeth Pauli declined to comment on the claim.

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