Facebook pixel
Removed code
Chat Phone
Close Menu
LeFante Law Offices

Anthony Stacey Case


“Former Peoria County jail inmate filing lawsuit for 2012 beating”

By Andy Kravetz
02/05/2013

pjstar.com/article/20130205/NEWS/302059674

Less than a week after a Peoria County correctional officer was acquitted of improperly striking an inmate last year, that same jailer is being sued in federal court for civil rights violations.

Anthony Stacey, 31, of Peoria, alleges his Constitutional Rights were violated on Feb 2, 2012, when he was an inmate at the Peoria County Jail and suffered injuries while he was being booked into the jail, according to a complaint filed on Monday afternoon in U.S. District Court in Peoria.

Stacey was brought to the jail for obstructing justice and claims he was subjected to excessive force by Trenton D. Gustafson, 29, of Chillicothe, whom he claims slammed his head into the floor and repeatedly struck him until Stacey was knocked unconscious.

In addition to Gustafson, Peoria and Peoria County are named as defendants as well as their respective law enforcement chiefs – Chief Steve Settingsgaard and Sheriff Michael McCoy. Two jailers, Jacqueline Russell and Kelly Nelson, and one Peoria police officer, Anthony Pence, were also included as defendants.

The suit seeks millions of dollars in damages as well as costs and fees.

Gustafson was acquitted of two misdemeanor counts of battery last Thursday after a three-day trial. It was undisputed Gustafson struck Stacey, and the officer testified he had to use force because Stacey was being combative and would not comply with his orders to be searched for contraband.

In the lawsuit, Stacey claimed he was intoxicated at the time and therefore, the jailers and Pence should have realized that and acted accordingly. Instead, the suit states, they failed to, and as a result, Stacey was severely injured.

 

Auto Accidents Auto Accidents
Workers Comp. Workers Comp.
Medical Malpractice Medical Malpractice
Slip-And-Fall Slip-And-Fall
Neglect Nursing Home
Negligence

Olivia Clark

When I got hit by a car I didn’t know who to turn to. Almost signed up with the “For the People” guys and then the LeFante Law Firm came over to my house to answer questions and see if they could help me. My attorney impressed me in how confident he was about helping… Read more “Olivia Clark”

Olivia Clark

Mary MM

Mr. LeFante is an attorney with staff who are all professional as well as friendly and understanding while working to help solve legal problems. He was consistently knowledgeable, honest, reliable, and worked hard to win my case. Mr. LeFante was prompt in returning phone calls and providing information to me. He prepared me well for… Read more “Mary MM”

Mary MM

Wendy Dunmoyer

LeFante Law Offices were amazing. They were the only law office that was willing to take our case as we did not live in the county that it happened it. Jim and his team were amazing. They made this experience as easy as it could be for us. They were right on top of everything… Read more “Wendy Dunmoyer”

Wendy Dunmoyer

They Fought for Me

If you need a lawyer, please feel comfortable in Mr. LeFante’s hands. I was hit by a truck while crossing the street. It was my first accident where I needed a lawyer and I didn’t know who to turn to. I am so thankful that I found Mr. LeFante and his entire office. They fought… Read more “They Fought for Me”

Dragoncook

Everyone at LeFante Law Offices has been Great these last 4 years. I was always kept in the loop and they made it easy for me to understand what was going on. When meeting at the office they make you feel comfortable and welcome. When handling cases they are all very Professional and Knowledgeable letting… Read more “Dragoncook”

Dragoncook

Exceeded Expectations!

Professional, courteous, prompt, and honest. They performed above and beyond all expectations.

Heather

They really take the time to listen to you no matter your age. They answer your questions and work very hard for you. They are always in contact to let you know how things are going. Would highly recommend

Heather

Responsive and Accommodating

I had a great experience working with LeFante Law Offices. They were responsive and accommodating, given my situation. While I hope I don’t need to seek legal counsel for a traffic violation again, if I do, I will be happy to reach out to Jim and his team again.

Matt Howarter

I know what your thinking, it’s just a fake review… No, it’s not, this is as real as it gets! Lefonte law are the best attorneys I have ever encountered!!! My case was an uphill battle the entire time. I fought this case for almost 4 years. Most of the time was medical issues from… Read more “Matt Howarter”

Matt Howarter

sophia r

Mr. LeFante helped me to feel the best I could despite my unfortunate situation. He explained the possibilities for my consequences, yet worked so hard for the best possible outcome. The court was able to see that I made a mistake, but that I am worth another chance for all I work for. I do… Read more “sophia r”

sophia rasiak
Average of 137 Ratings: 5.0 stars
View All Reviews