Family of woman killed by suburban Chicago officer sues

CHICAGO – The family of a 34-year-old woman fatally shot by a suburban Chicago police officer is suing, saying non-lethal devices were available to subdue her.

DeCynthia Clements was killed in March after a police chase and hourlong standoff. Officers say Clements set her car on fire and emerged with a knife. Elgin police Lt. Christian Jensen shot her three times.

The federal lawsuit filed Wednesday says the officers learned Clements was mentally ill during the standoff, and could have used a stun gun or rubber bullets instead.

The lawsuit names the city of Elgin, Jensen and other Elgin officers.

Lawyers say the police actions raise questions about racial profiling and demonstrate “blatant and unnecessary use of deadly force.” Clements was African-American.

Elgin officials say they will comment after reviewing the lawsuit.