Iberville deputy’s widow sues sheriff’s office alleging negligence in 2025 courthouse shooting
PLAQUEMINE, La. — The widow of fallen Iberville Parish Deputy Charles Riley has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the Iberville Parish Sheriff’s Office, Sheriff Brett Stassi, and Capt. Brett Stassi Jr., alleging negligence contributed to the deadly courthouse shooting that claimed Riley’s life in October 2025.
According to court filings, the lawsuit alleges failures in law enforcement procedures, training, and supervision played a significant role in the events leading up to the shooting at the Iberville Parish Courthouse. Deputy Riley was killed while assisting during the arrest of Latrell Clark, who authorities say gained access to a deputy’s firearm during a struggle inside an interview room.
The lawsuit claims Capt. Stassi Jr. violated established law enforcement protocols by bringing a firearm into an occupied interrogation room and failing to maintain control of the weapon during the altercation. Additional allegations include inadequate staffing, insufficient backup, and failures in departmental policies and training.
Attorney Rob Marionneaux, who represents Riley’s family, stated that the lawsuit seeks accountability for what he describes as preventable mistakes that led to the tragedy.
The suit also raises concerns regarding operational procedures within the sheriff’s office and questions whether proper safeguards were in place to prevent a suspect from gaining access to a service weapon.
In a public statement, Sheriff Brett Stassi expressed continued respect and appreciation for Deputy Riley’s service and sacrifice, while acknowledging the family’s right to pursue legal action through the courts.
The October 2025 shooting resulted in the death of Deputy Riley, serious injuries to Capt. Stassi Jr., and the death of suspect Latrell Clark. The incident remains one of the most significant law enforcement tragedies in Iberville Parish history.
The case is expected to move through the court system in the coming months as both sides present evidence regarding the circumstances surrounding the fatal shooting. Source: WBRZ News