Review of Unarmed Black Man’s Shooting Death Takes New Turn

TAMPA, FL — An investigation into the Aug. 30 shooting death of an unarmed black man by a Hillsborough County Sheriff’s deputy took a new turn Tuesday. State Attorney Mark Ober has recused himself from the review, citing a long-term friendship with the deputy’s family.

At issue is the controversial shooting death of Levonia “Daddyman” Riggins, 22. Riggins was shot and killed by a SWAT team member during a warrant search. While everyone inside the home came out at deputies’ commands, the sheriff’s office said Riggins remained inside a home in the 1400 block of Longwood Loop.

Deputy Caleb Johnson, 32, spotted Riggins through a bedroom window under the covers of a bed. Johnson, the sheriff’s office said, repeatedly issued commands for Riggins to come out. The seven-year veteran of the sheriff’s office “perceived Riggins as an immediate threat,” and shot him, an email from the sheriff’s office said.

Riggings died from his injuries.

See also: 2 Arrested at Protest Over Unarmed Black Man’s Death

On Tuesday, Ober sent a letter to Gov. Rick Scott asking that another state attorney review the shooting, the Tampa Bay Times reported. Ober cited a long-term friendship with Johnson’s family. The deputy’s uncle is former Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections Buddy Johnson.

It is not clear how soon Scott might appoint a different state attorney to review the shooting.

Riggins’ death has sparked a number of protests in Tampa and Clair-Mel. On Sept. 9, two people from St. Petersburg were arrested during a protest near the sheriff’s office Ybor City command center. About 15 people turned out to that protest, which was staged the day before Riggins’ funeral. The family wants an apology from Sheriff David Gee and has called for murder charges to be filed against Johnson, several media outlets have reported.

Johnson is out on administrative leave while the shooting is reviewed.

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