LACEY — The family of Susanne Clarke is disputing the New Jersey Attorney General’s account of the fatal police shooting that occurred outside her Lacey Township home in March, arguing that newly released body camera videos contradict key claims made by investigators.
In a statement released Tuesday through attorney Joshua S. Moskovitz of Rickner Moskovitz LLP, Clarke’s family said the videos show the 55-year-old was attempting to flee police officers when she was shot on March 16.
Clarke’s death is under investigation by the Attorney General’s Office, which earlier Tuesday released body camera footage and other videos from the incident.
According to the family’s statement, Clarke called 911 believing she was having a heart attack. The family contends officers determined there was no medical emergency after speaking with her but remained outside her home for nearly 40 minutes despite Clarke repeatedly telling them to leave her property.
The family alleges officers attempted to gain entry through windows before Officer Dallas Gant entered the home by breaking a window after claiming Clarke had stabbed her dog.
The statement argues that the released videos do not support that allegation.
“There is no truth to the claim that Ms. Clarke stabbed her dog,” the family said, adding that its own investigation found the dog had not been stabbed. Clarke’s relatives noted she loved dogs and had recently started a dog treat business.
According to the family’s account, Clarke picked up a kitchen knife after officers entered her home because she was frightened by what they describe as an unlawful intrusion. The family said she then attempted to leave the residence rather than confront officers.
Attorney Joshua S. Moskovitz said the body camera footage shows Clarke running away from officers before she was shot.
“We are outraged and saddened by what these videos show,” Moskovitz said. “Today’s partial release of information confirms that Sue should still be alive, and her death is the result of dreadful decisions by the Lacey Township Police Department.”
Moskovitz also criticized the Attorney General’s description of the encounter, saying the videos do not support the assertion that Clarke advanced toward officers with a knife. He argued officers should have used less-lethal options rather than deadly force.
The Attorney General’s Office has not announced whether any officers will face charges. The investigation into the shooting remains ongoing.
To access the videos, click here.
