Glenn Foster Jr.: Ex-NFL Star's Family Sues Law Enforcement, Claiming He Was Tortured to Death in Jail

The family of former NFL player Glenn Foster Jr. is seeking justice after his death in police custody. They filed a lawsuit against law enforcement officials, alleging that they repeatedly tortured Foster and caused his death.

According to the lawsuit, Foster was arrested on December 3, 2021, on charges of speeding and eluding police. The family claims that during his arrest, deputies wrestled him to the ground, slammed his head into the concrete, and ignored the recommendations of medical professionals for a full medical examination.

Despite concerns about Foster's mental health, he was booked into the Pickens County Jail. The lawsuit alleges that while incarcerated, Foster was subjected to excessive tasing, being strapped to a chair, choked, and put in headlocks. He was even denied necessary medical treatment.

On December 6, 2021, Foster was ordered by a judge to undergo a psychiatric evaluation. That same day, the family requested a guardian for Foster due to his mental state. However, he was never transferred to a medical facility.

During his transport to the North Port Medical Center, Foster was allegedly shackled and forcefully shoved into the vehicle. The lawsuit claims that this rough handling caused further injuries that contributed to his death.

Upon arrival at the medical facility, Foster was found slumped over, discolored, and foaming at the mouth. He was pronounced dead shortly after.

The lawsuit further alleges that law enforcement officials withheld surveillance footage of Foster's transport from the state investigator.

The family has retained civil rights attorney Ben Crump, who revealed that an independent autopsy showed "evidence of strangulation." However, a state autopsy concluded that Foster died of natural causes.

The lawsuit seeks an unspecified amount in damages and charges the defendants with wrongful death, excessive force, negligent training, and violation of Foster's civil rights.

"My son didn't have to die," said Foster's mother, Sabrina, at a press conference. "We are paying their salaries, so if they murder us, we are paying them to kill us."

Sheriff Jordan Powell denied knowledge of the lawsuit when contacted by ESPN. The Pickens County Sheriff's Office also declined to comment.

Foster played professional football for the New Orleans Saints for two seasons before being released in 2015. He is survived by four daughters and other family members.

 

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