The mother of an unarmed Oklahoma City man who died last year after being restrained by police has filed a wrongful death lawsuit in Oklahoma County District Court.

Velencia Maiden alleges that officers used excessive force in arresting her son. She also contends the police department inadequately investigates such complaints, fails to adequately train its officers on the use of force and allows a permissive atmosphere in which illegal and unconstitutional behavior toward citizens is tolerated and accepted. Maiden is seeking more than $75,000 in damages.

Clifton Armstrong, 38, died the night of May 1, 2013 after he became paranoid and dialed 911. Four police officers who responded attempted to convince Armstrong to go a hospital before eventually subduing him outside his mother's home at 1421 NW 99. Family members said he was addicted to methamphetamine.

The state medical examiner ruled the death an accident and attributed the cause to “Excited Syndrome due to methamphetamine toxicity.” The finding noted that Armstrong's physical confrontation with police was an "aggravating factor to his death."