In a tragic turn of events, 17-year-old Riley Doggett perished weeks after being hit by a Kent County Sheriff's deputy's cruiser, a chase that has garnered significant attention and controversy. Kent County Prosecutor Chris Becker confirmed that the deputy involved, Josiah McMains, will not face charges concerning the teenager's death. The decision has sparked outcry among Doggett's family members and community advocates, demanding transparency and accountability.
As reported by WZZM13, the incident occurred on April 8 when a vehicle, believed to be stolen and linked to multiple crimes, refused to halt for police in Holland, Michigan, triggering a high-speed chase. Doggett was a passenger in the vehicle that eventually crashed. McMains' pursuit continued on foot until Doggett was inadvertently struck, leading to his later death on May 9 from injuries sustained during the incident.
Contrary to the family's grievances and the community's unrest, the prosecutor's office has taken a definitive stance. "There was no evidence that Doggett was run over. It was an accident that his leg got caught in the wheel," Becker stated, deeming the deputy's actions not "grossly negligent", as per FOX 17. Furthermore, Becker is pressing felony charges against the juvenile who was driving the stolen vehicle, seeking to prosecute him as an adult for fleeing and eluding causing death, and continuing a criminal enterprise.
The Doggett family's quest for clarity is palpable as they, alongside Kent County Commissioner Robert Womack and their attorney Ven Johnson, have called for the public release of all video recordings of the chase. "If there is a video, which you all know there is, if it's bad for you or your side, that should not be a deciding factor for how long you hold onto it," Johnson articulated during a press conference, as Hoodline reports. The Kent County Sheriff's Office has refrained from releasing the footage until the prosecutor's review is completed.
In light of these developments, the community is left grappling with questions about the appropriate use of force and the mechanisms of justice that should follow. While the deputy's attorney shared their sympathies, they also emphasized the peril that Doggett's alleged criminal actions posed to society, stating, "His actions, unfortunately, placed him at high risk for a deadly encounter, whether with a citizen or law enforcement," according to FOX 17. Amidst legal proceedings and public discourse, Doggett's memory is being honored by those who knew him as someone with a love for sports and a heart for helping others.
