Savannah Police Video Sparks Excessive Force Claims and Planned Federal Lawsuit

A viral video showing a Savannah police officer pushing a woman to the ground during a downtown encounter has sparked public backlash, an internal police review, and plans for a federal civil rights lawsuit, according to the woman’s attorney.

The incident occurred on March 20 in downtown Savannah during an arrest for suspected public intoxication. While officers were taking one woman into custody, a group of bystanders confronted police on the scene.

During the exchange, one woman—identified as NiQuaysia Chisholm—is seen approaching officers as tensions escalated.

Body-worn camera footage later shared publicly appears to show a Savannah Police Department officer pushing Chisholm backward with both hands, causing her to fall to the ground.

The Savannah Police Department later confirmed the incident and stated it had already been reviewed internally before the video went viral. According to the department, the officer involved was suspended without pay as part of disciplinary action.

Officials said the department had been aware of the incident at the time it occurred and that an internal investigation was conducted under its use-of-force review process.

Chisholm’s attorney argues the officer’s actions amounted to excessive force. He claims she did not pose a threat and that the use of force was unnecessary during a verbal confrontation.

According to her legal representation, Chisholm sustained injuries from the fall, including reported pain and complications involving her arm and hand. Her attorney also stated she sought medical treatment following the incident.

Chisholm’s attorney has confirmed that a federal civil rights lawsuit is being prepared against the officer and the department. The lawsuit is expected to argue violations of constitutional protections against excessive force under federal law.

While the case has not yet been formally filed in court, the attorney has indicated legal action is imminent.

The video has circulated widely on social media, prompting renewed debate over police use of force and accountability in routine street encounters.

The officer involved has not been publicly identified by the department beyond internal disciplinary disclosures.

As of now, the investigation is considered closed internally, but the matter may soon shift into federal court if the lawsuit proceeds.