Family of Austin teen killed by police sues city, ex-officer

AUSTIN, TX -- The family of a nude, unarmed teen shot dead by an Austin police officer in February is suing the city and the since-fired officer.

The family of 17-year-old David Joseph announced Thursday that it had filed the wrongful death lawsuit a day earlier in federal court in Austin.

Police said officer Geoffrey Freeman shot and killed Joseph on Feb. 8 after the teen refused orders to stop and charged at the officer.

Freeman's attorney didn't return a message seeking comment on the lawsuit. A city statement says it "will take appropriate action to protect the city's interests."

Joseph was black, as is Freeman. He was fired in March. Police Chief Art Acevedo said he violated department policy in the shooting.

A grand jury declined to indict Freeman.