The family of Ricky Cobb II, a Black man killed by a state trooper in Minnesota during a traffic stop, has filed a federal civil rights lawsuit alleging that the shooting was unjustified and unlawful. The lawsuit names Troopers Ryan Londregan, who shot Cobb, and Brett Seide, who made the initial stop. Family attorney Bakari Sellers emphasized that Cobb was a productive member of the community and they are seeking justice for his death. The case has become politically charged in Minneapolis, where the murder of George Floyd in 2022 sparked global protests for racial justice.
Londregan’s lawyer, Chris Madel, disputed the allegations in the civil lawsuit, stating that they will fight it with the same vigor as the criminal case. The criminal complaint alleges that Cobb was shot by Londregan after he stopped his car during the traffic stop and the trooper perceived a threat. The lawsuit argues that it was unreasonable for Londregan to shoot Cobb, and that neither trooper had a reasonable suspicion that Cobb posed a threat to them. The plaintiffs are seeking unspecified damages in the lawsuit.
The sequence of events described in the lawsuit aligns with the criminal complaint, stating that Seide and another trooper pulled Cobb over on Interstate 94 due to a faulty light on his car. Seide discovered that Cobb had a warrant for violating a protection order in a neighboring county, leading the troopers to attempt an arrest. Londregan arrived to assist and the situation escalated when Cobb began moving his car. In less than a second, Londregan fired his gun twice at Cobb, striking him in the chest both times, leading to his death at the scene.
Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty, who charged Londregan in the case, has faced criticism from politicians and law enforcement for her decision. The Minnesota Police and Peace Officers Association released statements supporting Londregan’s actions, claiming he acted lawfully to protect his partners. Some Republicans in the state’s congressional delegation have called for an investigation into the decision to charge the trooper, alleging bias against law enforcement.
The family of Ricky Cobb held a news conference at the county courthouse to show support for Attorney Moriarty. Cobb’s twin brother, Rashad Cobb, called for unity and love, stating that they are seeking justice for their family member’s death. They emphasize the importance of putting politics aside and focusing on right and wrong rather than race. The case continues to evoke tensions in Minneapolis, where the legacy of George Floyd’s murder continues to shape discussions around police accountability and racial justice.
