Truck driver claims Madison cops battered him for no reason

A St. Louis truck driver filed suit against two Madison police officers in Madison County Circuit Court May 9, alleging they battered and tasered him for no reason.

Adulis Kidane alleges that Sgt. J.D. Harris and officer Mike Renth approached him at the Pilot Truck Stop on Route 203 on May 25, 2006, removed him from his semi-truck, and handcuffed him.

He alleges that while on the ground and in handcuffs, Renth kicked him in the body and head and Sgt. Harris tasered him.

"At no time did the plaintiff attempt to resist arrest or attack either of the police officers," the complaint states.

Kidane claims he was eventually arrested for two counts of resisting arrest and criminal trespass to property and placed in a Madison police car and taken to the city jail and placed in a cell until he posted bond.

He claims at no time did he knowingly resist arrest and was not aware that he was supposed to leave the truck stop.

Kidane claims he suffered mental anguish, physical pain and suffering and damage to his person as a result of the alleged battery and false imprisonment.

"At no time did the plaintiff consent to the touching of his person," the complaint states. Kidane alleges the officers' conduct constitutes a "willful touching."

Represented by Brian Polinske of Edwardsville, Kidane is seeking damages in excess of $250,000.