Lawyer: Police tried to cover up excessive force

HENRY COUNTY, Ga. (AP) - Lawyers for a former college football player say police and elected officials in a Georgia county tried to cover up excessive force used by officers during his arrest last year.

Henry County police arrested Desmond Marrow on Dec. 2 while responding to reports of a road rage situation. Video of the arrest that circulated widely online in April showed officers forcefully taking a handcuffed Marrow to the ground.

Henry County police Chief Mark Amerman in May fired Officer David Rose, saying an internal investigation determined the officer used unnecessary force and purposely left information out of his report.

RELATED: District Attorney: No felony charges against ex-football player, arresting officer fired

Lawyers for Marrow filed a lawsuit Monday in Henry County State Court. They say an initial police internal investigation in December cleared the officers of wrongdoing. They say that only after the arrest video went viral was a proper investigation done.

Henry County officials didn't respond Monday to phone and email messages seeking comment.

RELATED: Officer placed on leave following video of ex-football player's arrest