FALL RIVER — The Fall River Police Department and the City of Fall River have been named in a federal lawsuit filed on Nov. 8 by Attorney Eric B. Mack, representing the Estate of Anthony Harden.
The lawsuit follows a series of public criticisms by Attorney Mack against the department and the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office’s investigation into a tragic incident involving Mr. Harden.
The department issued a statement on Thursday, Nov. 14, defending the actions of their officers during the encounter with Harden, which is now under legal scrutiny.
The Bristol County District Attorney’s Office had previously confirmed that the officers’ response was justified, citing Harden’s attack on the officers during the incident.
According to the police department, Harden had a history of domestic violence and had resisted and shown noncompliance toward law enforcement in the past.
In 2013, Harden was involved in a violent domestic dispute and subsequently charged with assault and battery and vandalism.
Another incident on Nov. 14, 2019, led to a standoff with police after Harden threatened violence while holding his infant child and a sword.
The most recent confrontation in November 2021 resulted in Harden assaulting a police officer with a knife, prompting another officer to act in defense, which led to the current lawsuit.
The District Attorney’s investigation corroborated the events as described by the police.
The Fall River Police Department expressed confidence in the court’s ability to find the truth and has criticized Attorney Mack’s approach to the case.
They claimed that his public statements have unfairly targeted the character and integrity of the police force, particularly concerning one officer who is a domestic violence survivor.
The full investigation report can be accessed at the Bristol County District Attorney’s Office website.
