Family Files Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Federal Way
The family of Leon Davis is suing over his death following physical restraint at St. Francis Hospital.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Law Enforcement
The family of 27-year-old Leon Davis has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the City of Federal Way, the Federal Way Police Department, and St. Francis Hospital. The legal action follows the release of police bodycam footage showing the circumstances surrounding his death after he was restrained at the hospital.
Why it matters
The case raises questions about patient safety and restraint protocols after medical staff refused to let Davis leave the facility voluntarily. The delayed release of police footage has further intensified public scrutiny regarding transparency in this case.
The lawsuit names the City of Federal Way, the Federal Way Police Department, and St. Francis Hospital as defendants. Police withheld the relevant bodycam footage for seven months before its public release in October 2026.
The players
Leon Davis
The 27-year-old patient died at St. Francis Hospital while being held in physical restraint.
Federal Way Police Department
The local agency is a named defendant in the wrongful death lawsuit.
St. Francis Hospital
The medical facility where the patient was held against his request and subsequently died.
The details
Security guards and officers held Davis face-down on the floor for at least 25 minutes while applying a spit hood and administering tranquilizers. The incident occurred after staff refused his request to depart the hospital two days after he was admitted.
Timeline
March 12, 2026: Leon Davis voluntarily entered St. Francis Hospital.
March 14, 2026: Davis attempted to leave the hospital.
October 2026: Police bodycam footage was released to the public.
Legal Context
The case follows a pattern set by the 2020 death of George Floyd where bodycam footage proved central to public and legal discourse regarding physical restraint. It highlights the growing scrutiny on the intersection of law enforcement involvement and medical restraint practices.
The lawsuit and video release may prompt local officials to review police involvement in medical facility operations. Residents should monitor for updates on potential policy changes regarding hospital security and the use of physical restraints.
The takeaway
This case underscores the critical importance of transparency regarding institutional use of force. Families seeking accountability are increasingly relying on public access to police bodycam footage to challenge official narratives.
Further reading
For more background on regional legal issues, visit Law Enforcement.
