ACLU Seeks Information On Alleged Police Brutality In Superior

DOJ Continues Investigation Into Incident Where Police Officer Punched Woman

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An image from video released by Superior police of Officer George Gothner punching Natasha Lancour on Jan. 5. Photo courtesy of Superior Police Dept.

The Wisconsin American Civil Liberties Union is concerned about possible abuse in the case of a Superior police officer punching a woman outside a local bar.

A police video shows Officer George Gothner punching Natasha Lancour two or three times in the face while arresting her last month. She is charged with misdemeanor, resisting arrest and disorderly conduct – charges that were reduced from a felony two weeks ago. The state Department of Justice is investigating claims of police brutality by Lancour.

ACLU Director Chris Ahmuty said they’re asking the Superior Police Department for all public records about this incident.

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“Recognize that this was another example of potential police misconduct – excessive use of force by a department in Wisconsin,” said Ahmuty. “There have been many such incidents over the last several years.”

Ahmuty said while they’re leaving the overall investigation to the state, he wants to know about Superior police use of force and training policies.

“What ACLU is most concerned about in Superior and other communities across our state where we’ve looked at these issues, is really prevention of excessive use of force, of remedying possible biased police,” said Ahmuty.

Ahmuty wants the Superior Police and Fire Commission, which meets on Wednesday night, to review police practices. Commission President Charlie Glazman won’t talk about the case, but may discuss it at the meeting, as it is on their agenda.

“We hear charges filed against the department, and we can hear appeals of disciplinary actions initiated by chief on any of the staff,” said Glazman.

Lancour and her attorney say they’ll be at the commission meeting.