This nightmare began on July 4th, 2019. Josh responded to a call about a naked, 350-pound man walking erratically down the street. This was a volatile, dangerous situation.
Josh called for backup. When Officer Brandon Dingman arrived, they tried to handcuff the suspect, Jared Lakey, but he was too strong. Too big. Too out of control.
So, they did exactly what their training taught them to do: they used a non-lethal taser.
Lakey ripped the taser barbs out. Again. And again. Nothing worked.
Backup arrived. They finally restrained him and immediately called medics. Lakey was transported to the hospital.
Two days later, he tragically passed away.
An autopsy revealed serious health problems: an enlarged heart and lung issues. But the cause of death could not be determined.
Both the Chief of Police and the City Council investigated…and BOTH cleared Josh and Brandon of any wrongdoing.
But that wasn’t enough for a politicized prosecutor. He waited an entire year, then charged them with second-degree murder…ignoring the facts, ignoring the investigations, ignoring justice.
Now, after being cleared TWICE, these two heroes are facing years behind bars.
Their only chance left is to fight this at the Oklahoma Supreme Court. But they cannot do it alone.
Stand with Officers Taylor and Dingman today!
Your donation will go directly to their legal defense, helping them push back against this political witch hunt and fight for their freedom.
Every dollar matters. Every second counts. Their families—and their futures—are on the line.
Please, chip in whatever you can today to defend Josh and Brandon.
For justice,
Sheriff Joe Arpaio
