Breaking News: DeSean Jackson Files Lawsuit Against Los Angeles County and Ralphs Grocery Co.

Former Long Beach Poly alum and retired NFL wide receiver, DeSean Jackson, has filed a lawsuit against Los Angeles County and Ralphs Grocery Co. for wrongful arrest in connection with a car theft incident in 2023 at a Ralphs store in Marina del Rey.

Jackson alleges that his civil rights were violated, along with claims of negligence and false imprisonment, seeking unspecified damages in the Los Angeles Superior Court lawsuit filed recently.

The lawsuit states, “Defendant Ralphs has a history of racially profiling African-American men, violating their civil rights while shopping in the store.”

Representatives for the county and Ralphs were unavailable for immediate comment.

On June 25, 2023, Jackson, 37, was grocery shopping at the Ralphs store on Lincoln Boulevard when he was arrested by a deputy sheriff without being read his rights. He was then taken to a sheriff's station and detained for several hours.

Despite a security guard having a photo of the actual car theft suspect, who only resembled Jackson in being Black, no intervention was made to stop Jackson from being wrongfully taken into custody.

Jackson believes that implicit bias led to his false accusation and subsequent emotional distress, seeking medical treatment for his trauma.

Having played for various NFL teams during a 15-season career, including the Philadelphia Eagles and Los Angeles Rams, Jackson is a three-time Pro Bowl selection and has made significant contributions to the sport.

Let's hope justice prevails in this case as Jackson fights for his rights and seeks accountability for the wrongful arrest he endured.

What do you think?

• Do you believe DeSean Jackson's claims of racial profiling are valid?
• Should there be stricter consequences for law enforcement officers involved in wrongful arrests?
• How can instances of implicit bias be addressed and prevented in society?