East Central Reporter

The Federal Court for the Central District of Illinois has ruled against Paris Police Officers Matthew McConnell and Kevin Ring, who is retired, for civil rights violations involving Skyler Davis, a disabled man from Paris. This decision comes after five years of legal proceedings. The case stemmed from an incident on August 27, 2019, when the officers pursued then-15-year-old Skyler Davis with their squad cars. McConnell claimed that Davis had violated a city ordinance by riding his bicycle on sidewalks in the business district.

Cody Jewell, another officer involved who is now a deputy sheriff, settled before trial by agreeing to a monetary settlement to avoid court proceedings.

During the incident in question, Davis was reportedly chased through various locations including private lawns. He alleged that Officer Ring hit his bicycle's back tire with a squad car, although Ring denied any contact occurred. At one point during the pursuit, McConnell exited his vehicle and attempted to chase Davis on foot but was unable to catch him.

Skyler testified that once he returned home, McConnell entered his house without permission and physically restrained him before taking him to the police station where he was handcuffed to a wall for an hour without supervision. An eyewitness supported Skyler's account of being thrown into a wall and then onto the floor by McConnell.

Despite receiving an ordinance ticket related to the incident, neither local nor state prosecutors pursued charges against Skyler Davis. However, both officers received written warnings from then Chief Eric Brown for violating department policies regarding vehicular pursuits.

"Little tough guy decided he was gonna run his mouth and get away from us!" was recorded as part of McConnell’s statements during dispatch communications at the time of the incident.

The case highlights issues surrounding accountability in police conduct cases and raises questions about why officers are not prosecuted similarly to civilians under similar circumstances. Citizens are encouraged to report instances of police misconduct to appropriate authorities for investigation and possible corrective action.