Update: This story has struck a nerve because it clearly shows a horrible consequence to yet another example of several no-knock raids we have outlined in the past several months.
To that end we have contacted a local Atlanta media reporter seeking further information and assistance, as well as offering our resources. (more details will follow)
In the interim here is some information we have gathered after a few phone calls:
The “no knock” raid took place at the suspects mothers house, not his. This specific residence has never been a drug house, never identified as a high risk house, and has never been the subject of any prior law enforcement engagement. [*NOTE* the police dispute this, but it should be easy enough to verify]
The suspect being sought on the warrant, Wanis Thometheva (aged 30), did not live there, nor was the address his known or listed address on any current or previous identification over the past five years. [should be easy enough to verify]
The police were told by an “unknown and unnamed informant”, that Wanis Thometheva lived there (that is the position of the police). However, he did not.
Wanis Thometheva was arrested later at his listed residence.
The local Sheriff has publically stated there were no weapons or drugs found in the house that was raided under the warrant. [*NOTE* Another media report reflects the Sheriff saying they found “residue” – again this should be easy enough to verify] The visiting family, little “Bou Bou” Phonesavanhs, his three older sisters and both parents, were asleep in the room (garage conversion) while visiting from Wisconsin.
Only the little boy was injured. He is 19 months old.
The family is from Wisconsin where their home was recently destroyed in a house fire. The father of the little boy is the brother of the suspects mother. The 19 month old victim and the suspect named on the warrant are cousins. In essence the family were staying with the little boys aunt.
The family was due to go back to Wisconsin later the same morning the incident took place. Their car was packed in preparation for them leaving later that morning. (more…)