An illegal immigrant from Guatemala accused of manslaughter in the death of Florida Sheriff’s Sergeant Michael Kunovich has filed a federal lawsuit claiming limited English skills make him disabled.
19-year-old Virgilio Aguilar-Mendez’s native language is Mam, not Spanish or English.
“Mr. Virgilio was a victim of police brutality. He was a victim of racial profiling,” Aguilar-Mendez’s attorney said.
“He was a victim of violation of his fourth, fifth, and sixth amendment constitutional rights. Those who are responsible for this abuse will be held accountable.”
The lawsuit states that he was denied an interpreter during his arrest and questioning, violating the Americans with Disabilities Act and Rehabilitation Act.
However, police documents state the questioning was conducted in Spanish.
Aguilar-Mendez is accused of resisting Kunovich during a pat down, leading to a six-minute struggle over the officer’s taser.
After being subdued, Aguilar-Mendez allegedly pulled a knife before Kunovich collapsed and later died.
