Alexander F. Hottes has filed a lawsuit against Jose Barajas in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, under case number 24-cv-3793, on May 9, 2024. The complaint alleges violations of the United States Constitution and the Civil Rights Act. The plaintiff is represented by Ed Fox & Associates, Ltd.
In late November 2022, Mr. Hottes was observing Christmas decorations when he was pulled over by officer Jose Barajas of the Village of Lyons Police Department. The defendant then removed the plaintiff from his vehicle, placed him in handcuffs and into his police vehicle. Mr. Hottes alleges there was no legal cause for him to be placed in handcuffs or placed into the police vehicle. The complaint alleges Officer Barajas then searched the plaintiffs car without any legal basis.
The plaintiff was then charged with multiple violations by Officer Barajas all of which were dismissed in state court.
Mr. Hottes claims to have suffered significant injuries due to these actions including loss of liberty, invasion of privacy, humiliation and indignities causing great mental and emotional pain. The damages are described as willful, wanton, malicious and oppressive by the plaintiff.
Mr. Hottes seeks judgment for general damages including emotional distress, special damages, attorneys’ fees, punitive and exemplary damages all to be ascertained at trial. He also requests for costs incurred during the suit and any other relief deemed just by the court.