News Summary
Steve Young and Winifred Jamieson have filed a federal lawsuit against the Kansas City Police Department, alleging civil rights violations after their arrest during a comedy show. The couple’s disorderly conduct charges were dismissed more than two years later, prompting them to raise concerns over unequal treatment and probable cause for their arrest. Their attorney highlights the unprecedented nature of the case, amidst ongoing scrutiny of law enforcement practices.
Kansas City – An interracial couple, Steve Young and Winifred Jamieson, has filed a federal lawsuit against the Kansas City Police Department following their arrest during a comedy show on March 22, 2022. The couple, who were charged with disorderly conduct, had their charges dismissed more than two years later, prompting them to allege civil rights violations in court.
The lawsuit was officially lodged on June 18, 2025, in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Missouri. Young and Jamieson argue that officers Benjiman Dougherty and Jared Comfort violated their civil rights by arresting them without probable cause. They contend that the arrest not only contravened the Fourth Amendment, which protects against unreasonable seizures, but also infringed upon the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment.
In their lawsuit, Young and Jamieson assert that their arrest involved unlawful confinement and malicious prosecution, which further underscores their claims of rights violations. The couple’s apprehension raises significant concerns, especially since a third woman involved in the incident was not arrested, indicating a discrepancy in law enforcement’s decision-making process.
The incident began when Young was noted for being “too engaged” during comedian Hasan Minhaj’s performance, causing frustration for a white female patron seated in front of him. The patron confronted Young about his enthusiastic reactions, leading to a dispute. Security personnel were called to address the situation, and police were subsequently involved when tensions escalated. During this time, Minhaj paused his act until order was restored.
According to Young and Jamieson, they were merely partaking in the comedy show, responding with laughter and applause. Both individuals are known for their community activism in Kansas City, with Young serving a key role at the Kansas City Law Enforcement Accountability Project (KCLEAP). Reports indicate there was no substantial evidence to suggest that either individual was under the influence of alcohol or other substances when the altercation occurred.
Officer Dougherty’s report describes Young as “loud and disruptive,” claiming he reacted with profanity when asked by officers to step outside the venue. During the incident, Jamieson reportedly voiced her support for the “Black lives matter” movement, citing their rights and connection to the local community. This added a layer of complexity to the arrest, intensifying questions about the motivations behind law enforcement’s actions.
Notably, police reports listed Kansas City as the victim rather than specifying an individual, raising further questions about the rationale for the couple’s arrest. Accounts from witnesses to the incident were scarce; although four individuals were listed as witnesses, only one could be reached afterward, and he did not recall the events of that night.
The situation gained attention, especially as city officials indicated that the dismissed charges against Young and Jamieson remain confidential under Missouri Sunshine Law. This leaves many unanswered questions regarding the nature of the arrests and the handling of the situation by the police department.
Young and Jamieson’s attorney, Arthur Benson, highlighted that the case is unprecedented in his extensive legal career, emphasizing the racial dynamics at play during the incident. The Kansas City Police Department has opted not to comment on the ongoing litigation, prioritizing fairness to all parties involved.
The upcoming legal proceedings will determine the extent of accountability for law enforcement officials in this case and may have ramifications for how similar events are managed in the future.
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Additional Resources
- Kansas City Opinion: Toriano Porter
- Google Search: Kansas City Police Department
- KCTV5: Police Investigation in Northland
- Wikipedia: Police Procedure
- Fox4KC: Defense Training in Independence
- Google News: Arrests in Kansas City
- Kansas City Star: Local Crime News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Civil Rights
- KSHB: KC Streetcar Security Team
- Google Search: Comedy Show Kansas City Arrest
