Fairfield teen speaks as new video shows violent arrest, family plans lawsuit
FAIRFIELD, Calif. (KGO) -- The family of 16-year-old Maurice Williams, who was arrested during an on-campus fight at Fairfield High School, says it plans to file a lawsuit.
They have hired renowned civil rights attorney John Burris -- known for representing Rodney King -- as fallout continues following the incident.
The family claims the incident goes beyond excessive force, raising broader concerns about policing and trust in the community.
RELATED: Lawyer alleges excessive force in Fairfield officer beating of high school student
New cellphone video from a different vantage point, captured by classmates, shows the moment Williams was violently beaten and arrested at Fairfield High School nearly two weeks ago.
Body camera footage later released by police sparked protests and prompted the filing of a legal claim against the city, the first step before a lawsuit.
Williams said the experience has had a lasting impact.
"Everything that happened in it affected me in my everyday life. Like, everything is different now. I can't go outside without worrying about being seen or recognized or being harassed by the police," Williams said.
His mother, Rhamesha Williams, described her reaction to the incident.
"I'm in disbelief. My child had to endure something so horrific at such a young age," Rhamesha Williams said.
RELATED: Fairfield officer reassigned amid excessive force claims, outrage grows as new video surfaces
Attorneys for the family said the police chief has indicated criminal charges against Williams have not been ruled out, adding that the teen has no prior history.
The family's legal team is calling for Officer Bianca Camacho to be prosecuted and, at a minimum, removed from the force.
Burris said the case involves clear civil rights concerns.
"And this is clear, clearly excessive force. No question about it. He's a civil rights violations, and they're going to be dealt with accordingly. And if any criminal cases come up, I'll deal with those as well," Burris said.
The claim alleges officers threw Williams to the ground and punched him multiple times before restraining him. It further alleges he was not armed or resisting and has since suffered injuries, including a concussion and emotional distress.
RELATED: Backlash after video shows Fairfield officer strike student amid high school fight, 2 teens arrested
The family's legal team also said the incident raises broader concerns about long term changes needed for policing, referencing the late Rodney King.
"One of the things that we dealt with in the Rodney King case, that he had a hard time coming to grips with in his life, and he ultimately cut short his life, he couldn't get over the images he could see everyone talk about all the time," Burris said.
Williams said he is now afraid to go outside, no longer drives and has considered cutting off his dreadlocks.
"I stand here not only for me and my family, but for every mother's who had to endure this pain. My child now has to live with this trauma, and I stand firmly beside him while pleading with the city to protect my child and protect the children that come after him," Rhamesha Williams said.
