Des Moines Officers Sued Over Force Used in 2024 Arrest
A lawsuit alleges police fractured a man's jaw during an arrest on December 1, 2024.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Law Enforcement
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Charles Leroy White filed a lawsuit in U.S. District Court after alleging that Des Moines police officers fractured his jaw during his December 1, 2024, arrest. The suit claims officers used excessive force and failed to provide medical care after the arrest.
Why it matters
The legal action alleges that the Des Moines Police Department maintains a policy of tolerating force against arrestees who have already surrendered. This case adds to ongoing scrutiny regarding police conduct and city-funded settlements in the area.
The civil rights lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Iowa. Total settlements for excessive-force claims against the City of Des Moines have reached $1.7 million since 2008.
The players
Charles Leroy White
He is a 49-year-old man who pleaded guilty to attempted burglary in the third degree and is currently suing city police.
Eric Lee Kelley
The 39-year-old filed a separate excessive-force lawsuit against Des Moines police on September 2, 2026.
The details
White, 49, claims officers used a Taser and physical force against him despite his surrender before transporting him to the Polk County Jail without medical attention. He later received treatment for a fractured jaw at Broadlawns Medical Center on December 2, 2024, following his arrest for attempted burglary.
Timeline
2008: Start of the period for recorded excessive force settlements.
December 1, 2024: Charles Leroy White was arrested by police.
December 2, 2024: White received medical treatment for his injuries.
September 2, 2026: A separate lawsuit was filed by Eric Lee Kelley.
September 30, 2026: News regarding the litigation was published.
Legal Context
This case follows a pattern of litigation against the city, which has paid out $1.7 million in excessive-force settlements since 2008. The recent filing joins other legal actions, including a lawsuit brought by Eric Lee Kelley in September 2026.
The lawsuit highlights ongoing concerns regarding police conduct that may lead to further public scrutiny of department training and oversight. Residents may see continued discussion about safety protocols and potential changes to how city agencies handle the detention of arrestees.
The takeaway
Civil rights lawsuits can reveal systemic patterns regarding police force and city liability. Transparency in these legal proceedings remains essential for community oversight of public safety institutions.
Further reading
Learn more about local oversight and judicial proceedings in the Des Moines Law Enforcement section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Iowacapitaldispatch.
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