On August 31st of 2023, Janis Mensah (they/ them) was beaten unconscious by police while sitting patiently in the city jail lobby. At the time, Janis was Vice Chair of the Detention Facilities Oversight Board, a civilian board established by the City to advise the Mayor, Corrections and Public Safety on jail conditions, operations, and policies.

Earlier that day, detainee Terrance Smith died in custody, prompting Janis's oversight visit.

Then-Commissioner of Corrections Jennifer Clemons-Abdullah called police to "get [Janis] out" reporting that Janis had "no reason to be [there]." Responding officers were caught on jail security cameras throwing Janis to the ground before punching Janis multiple times in the back. Following the assault, Janis regained consciousness in the hospital, injured and confused. Janis learned of the official charges of trespassing and resisting arrest the following day when they found the citation placed in their bag by police officers. Despite Janis's offer to settle out of court, the City refuses to drop the charges and continues to prosecute Janis.

Despite video evidence proving Janis did not trespass or resist arrest and was in fact assaulted by police, Janis was found guilty in a bench trial last summer. After an appeal, Janis will be facing a jury trial July 23 and July 24, 2025. Stay tuned for updates on the new date.