In a shocking incident that raises serious questions about law enforcement conduct, a lawsuit has been filed alleging unlawful entry and excessive force by police officers. The complaint was lodged by Jessica Cleavenger on January 23, 2026, in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Ohio against the Huron County Sheriff’s Office, among others.
The lawsuit arises from events that unfolded in the early hours of June 17, 2022, at Cleavenger’s home in New London, Ohio. According to the complaint, officers unlawfully forced their way into her residence without a warrant or exigent circumstances, violating her Fourth Amendment rights. The suit claims that during this intrusion, officers trespassed on her property and inflicted emotional distress on Cleavenger and her children. The plaintiffs assert that these actions resulted in significant emotional and physical harm. “The individual Defendants’ conduct was unreasonable and without justification,” states the complaint.
Cleavenger is seeking compensatory and punitive damages for what she describes as an egregious violation of her family’s civil rights. The legal action also includes claims under 42 U.S.C. § 1983 for unreasonable search and seizure and failure to intervene to prevent constitutional violations. Additionally, it accuses the Huron County Sheriff’s Office and Village of New London of maintaining unconstitutional policies that led to these violations.
The plaintiffs are asking for relief including compensatory damages to cover economic losses such as property damage and non-economic injuries like emotional distress. They are also seeking punitive damages to deter similar conduct in the future, along with reasonable attorneys’ fees.
Representing Jessica Cleavenger are attorneys Nicholas A. Dicello and Kevin C. Hulick from Spangenberg Shibley & Liber LLP. The case is being overseen by Judge [Name Not Provided] under Case ID: 3:26-cv-00193.
Source: 326cv00193_Cleavenger_v_Huron_County_Sheriff_Complaint_Northern_District_Ohio.pdf
