Third Officer Charged In Gray Case Files Suit Against Mosby

An officer charged in the death of a young black man whose neck was broken in the back of a police wagon has filed a federal defamation lawsuit against Baltimore's top prosecutor.

Lt. Brian Rice sued State's Attorney Marilyn Mosby and Maj. Sam Cogen of the sheriff's office for defamation of character, false imprisonment and violation of rights.

In the lawsuit, Rice cited Mosby's public comments during her May 1 press conference when she announced charges against six officers, including statements about the legality of the knife found on Freddie Gray. The officers maintain the knife was unlawful. Mosby said it was legal.

Rice faces manslaughter and other charges stemming from Gray's death. Two other officers have filed similar defamation suits in state court.

Rice's suit was unsealed Monday.