A South Carolina couple has filed a federal civil rights lawsuit after what they describe as a traumatic, weapons-drawn traffic stop that unfolded in front of their children on a rural highway.
Traffic Stop Turns Into High-Risk Encounter
According to Kartrez Rush and Jasmine Scott, the incident occurred in May 2025 as they were driving home through Sumter County on Highway 527.
The couple said they were pulled over by Trooper Kyle Lyman while towing a U-Haul trailer filled with chairs from a work event.
Rush said he attempted to retrieve his license and registration but was met with officers shouting commands and drawing their weapons. Both he and Scott were ordered out of the vehicle, told to walk backward with their hands raised, and then handcuffed.
Their children remained in the vehicle during the stop, with one daughter recording video of the incident.
Search Finds No Evidence of Crime
After detaining the couple, officers searched the U-Haul trailer but found only household items. No stolen property or illegal items were discovered.
Rush and Scott were released at the scene without charges.
Stop Stemmed From Unverified Tip
Authorities initiated the stop based on a report from Tony Cook, who contacted dispatch in a neighboring county claiming a vehicle matching a similar description was involved in a theft.
Records indicate the caller did not witness a crime firsthand and could not provide a license plate number. Despite the limited information, law enforcement acted on the report, leading to the stop.
Lawsuit Alleges Civil Rights Violations
The couple has filed a federal lawsuit against the South Carolina Department of Public Safety and Trooper Lyman, alleging false imprisonment and violations of their civil rights.
Their attorney, Tyler Bailey, argues the case highlights the risks of acting on unverified tips during high-risk police encounters and is seeking accountability for how the information was handled.
Broader Concerns Raised
The case adds to ongoing national discussions about policing practices, particularly the use of force during traffic stops based on uncertain or incomplete information.
For the Rush family, the experience was deeply personal and frightening—captured on video by their daughter and now forming a central part of their legal case.
Case Still Pending
The South Carolina Department of Public Safety has not commented on the allegations, citing pending litigation.
The lawsuit remains active as the family seeks accountability and answers over the events of that night.
