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Haverhill Family Sues Officers Over Fatal Restraint of Francis Gigliotti
The family of Francis Gigliotti, who died after being restrained by Haverhill police outside a restaurant in July 2025, has filed a federal civil rights lawsuit against the officers involved. The suit seeks compensatory and punitive damages, while the police chief and union defend the officers' conduct.
HAVERHILL, Mass. â The family of a man who died after being restrained by Haverhill police outside a seafood restaurant last summer has filed a federal civil rights lawsuit against the officers involved, alleging they violated his constitutional rights.
The complaint, filed Monday in U.S. District Court, claims that the officers deprived Francis Gigliotti of his rights to due process and to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures during the July 11, 2025, struggle that led to his death. The suit seeks compensatory and punitive damages, as well as attorneys' fees.
Gigliotti, 40, died after a confrontation with police outside the restaurant. The Essex County District Attorney's Office earlier this year declined to bring criminal charges against any of the officers, concluding that the death was caused by "cardiac dysrhythmia in a person with acute intoxication due to the combined effects of cocaine and ethanol while being restrained prone by police." An investigation that included an independent expert found the officers followed procedure.
Gigliotti's family said at the time they were "disappointed, but not surprised" by the decision and vowed to pursue a civil lawsuit. In a statement Wednesday, the Haverhill police union reiterated its confidence in the officers and shared a message from Police Chief Wayne Tracy.
"I have unwavering confidence in the officers involved in this incident and stand firmly behind them," Tracy said. "I will not allow the mere filing of a lawsuit to diminish their professionalism, their integrity, or their service to this community. We respect the judicial process and are confident that the facts will speak for themselves."
Mayor Melinda Barrett, responding to the earlier decision not to charge the officers, said it confirmed "that the officers involved acted within the scope of their duties and in accordance with procedures." She added, "While this conclusion provides clarity, we recognize that no outcome can ease the pain felt by Mr. Gigliotti's family and loved ones."
The lawsuit marks the latest chapter in a case that has raised questions about police use of force and restraint tactics in the Merrimack Valley city. Gigliotti's family has described him as a beloved father and friend who was crying for help during the encounter.
The city and police department have not publicly commented on the pending litigation. A federal judge will oversee the case.