Is using a taser on a disabled man abuse of authority or a sign of incompetence? In a Salt Lake City courtroom, it appears to be both.

On November 22, 2004, Dr. Lowery, a former professor of political philosophy and jurisprudence, entered the Utah Third District courtroom alone as a pro se plaintiff. Judge Quinn granted Dr. Lowery’s motion to allow reasonable modifications of court rules, policies, or practices in order to accommodate the plaintiff’s severe and persistent mental disabilities. Nevertheless, about twenty minutes into the hearing, the Judge—apparently bored with the plaintiff’s speech—decided to entertain himself by watching five bailiffs assault Dr. Lowery from behind and taser him into uncosciousness.

Click here to watch the video of the tasering and read why Dr. Lowery is now suing Judge Quinn and the Salt Lake County Sheriff’s Department.