Walker River mother sues BIA for teen's death

Friday, August 31, 2007  

The mother of a 17-year-old teen who was shot to death by a police officer on the Walker River Paiute Reservation in Nevada is suing the Bureau of Indian Affairs.

Norman "Manny" Boney Jr., 17, was killed at his family's home on July 15, 2004. He was shot by officer Walter Valline during a domestic incident.

Valline, a non-Indian, was investigated by the U.S. Attorney's Office but no charges were filed. The Department of Justice said Valline's actions were not a crime.

Gail Boney wants the BIA to pay $4 million for wrongful death, extreme emotional distress, recklessness and other claims. She is also suing Valline, who was accused of being heavy handed when he worked for the Eureka County sheriff's department.

Get the Story:
Slain teen's mother suing BIA (The Lahontan Valley News 8/26)

Related Stories:
Wrongful death suit planned in police shooting of teen (9/3)
Teen shot by tribal police on Paiute reservation (07/20)