Rock Hill, South Carolina, September 5, 2025
News Summary
A federal magistrate judge has recommended the dismissal of Ricky Roderick Price’s lawsuit against the Rock Hill police, following a controversial arrest in June 2021 that sparked protests over police tactics. Price, arrested after intervening in his brother’s arrest, claims constitutional violations due to his treatment by law enforcement. Despite these claims, the judge ruled that the initial traffic stop was lawful. The case continues as Price’s attorney highlights concerns over police motivations and the legality of the stop.
Rock Hill, South Carolina – A federal magistrate judge in South Carolina has recommended the dismissal of a lawsuit filed by Ricky Roderick Price against the Rock Hill police following a controversial arrest that occurred in June 2021. The incident, which went viral and prompted widespread protests concerning police tactics, has raised questions about the legality of the police’s actions during the arrest.
In June 2021, Price, a Black man, was arrested outside a Rock Hill convenience store following a traffic stop. The conflict escalated when Price attempted to intervene after police officers took his brother, Travis Price, to the ground. The arrest, captured in a video and later shared on social media, sparked three days of protests highlighting issues of police use of force.
The situation intensified in the wake of Price’s arrest, as he was held in jail for several months before prosecutors dismissed all drug and traffic charges against him. Following his release, Price filed a lawsuit in September 2024 against the City of Rock Hill and specific police officers, seeking damages related to the physical and emotional harm he alleged he sustained during the incident.
U.S. District Court Magistrate Shiva Hodges ruled in favor of Officer Jonathan Moreno, citing that the traffic stop was lawful based on observed traffic violations, including an improper lane change made by Price. Despite this recommendation, Price’s attorney, Monier Abusaft, contends that the officers’ motivations were driven by Price’s past criminal history, suggesting that the stop was unconstitutional.
Abusaft argues that inconsistent justifications provided by Moreno regarding the initial traffic stop raise significant concerns about its legality. He maintains that the reliance on Price’s previous encounters with law enforcement represents a violation of his constitutional rights.
In the aftermath of the arrest, Travis Price faced charges for hindering police efforts but was later exonerated due to video evidence contradicting the officers’ claims. The protests that erupted in Rock Hill led to confrontations between demonstrators and law enforcement, further highlighting community tensions around police practices. After the protests, charges against Travis were dropped, and Officer Moreno was fired before being acquitted of separate assault allegations in another trial.
In addition to the current federal lawsuit, Ricky Price has also filed a separate lawsuit in York County civil court against Rock Hill, which remains under consideration.
As of now, the magistrate’s recommendation to dismiss the lawsuit awaits approval from a higher federal judge. Police lawyers are expected to respond to objections raised by Price’s attorney, indicating that legal proceedings are likely ongoing.
Background Context
The arrest that led to this lawsuit is part of a larger conversation about police oversight and accountability, particularly in response to incidents involving minority communities. The protests in Rock Hill were emblematic of a broader national movement advocating for systemic changes within law enforcement agencies.
Key Timeline of Events
- June 23, 2021: Ricky Price arrested following a traffic stop.
- Video footage of the arrest goes viral, leading to protests over police force.
- Ricky Price spends months in jail; prosecutors later dismiss charges.
- September 2024: Ricky Price files a lawsuit against the City of Rock Hill and police officers.
- Magistrate Hodges recommends dismissal of the lawsuit.
- Separate civil lawsuit in York County still pending.
FAQ Section
What is the basis of Ricky Price’s lawsuit?
The lawsuit is based on claims of physical and emotional harm following a controversial police arrest that Price alleges violated his constitutional rights.
What led to the protests in Rock Hill?
The protests were triggered by a video of Ricky Price’s arrest, which many viewed as excessive force by law enforcement.
What was the outcome of the traffic stop involving Price?
The federal magistrate found that Officer Moreno lawfully stopped Price for observed traffic violations.
What are the next steps in the legal proceedings?
The magistrate’s recommendation awaits approval from a higher federal judge, and police lawyers will respond to the objections presented by Price’s attorney.
Summary Chart of Key Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| June 23, 2021 | Ricky Price arrested following a traffic stop |
| Post-Arrest | Protests erupt in Rock Hill over police actions |
| September 2024 | Ricky Price files lawsuit against Rock Hill police |
| Present | Magistrate recommends dismissal of the lawsuit |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Deployment of National Guard Troops for Federal Policing in D.C.
Trump Administration Proposes National Guard Quick Reaction Force
Trial Set for Accused Murderer of Retired Police Officer
Trial Date Set for Murder of Retired Rock Hill Police Lieutenant
Mass Shooting at Memorial Day Weekend Party in Little River
Senator Climer Files Lawsuit Against Pay Raise for Legislators
Additional Resources
- Herald Online
- WLTX
- Wikipedia: Police Brutality
- WCCB Charlotte
- Google Search: Rock Hill South Carolina police accountability
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
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