Notice filed over city shooting [Times Union, Albany, N.Y.]

Dec. 30--SCHENECTADY -- The 21-year-old man shot three times in October after lunging with a steak knife at a police officer in the Daily Gazette's main office plans to sue the city.

Elvis Norwood has filed a notice of claim, a precursor to a lawsuit, contending he suffered serious and permanent injuries after being shot in the chest, arm and abdomen by a city police officer. The confrontation occurred on a Saturday afternoon in October in the lobby of the Daily Gazette building in Schenectady.

"This use of deadly force was excessive, unnecessary and uncalled for and resulted in serious injuries to claimant," the document states.

On Thursday, William F. Ryan Jr., Norwood's attorney, echoed those sentiments.

"The theme that we have conveyed is that there was excessive force used under the circumstances," said Ryan. "No one's life was at stake in that lobby so it's beyond me why they used the degree of force they did."

Schenectady's newly appointed city attorney, John R. Polster, confirmed Thursday that the city had received the claim on Dec. 16 but that he had not yet seen the document. He said his office has notified the city's insurance company as well as the police officers and others involved in the shooting.

The claim seeks "money damages" for personal injuries, pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, medical expenses and economic damages. Norwood now has a year to file the lawsuit.

Attorney Sven Paul, who is representing Norwood in the criminal case, did not return a call seeking comment on its status.

According to officials, Norwood entered the newspaper's building at 2345 Maxon Road Extension on Oct. 8 and asked for a drink of water. A security guard let him in, but police were called after he displayed a 9-inch steak knife.

Officers Brett Ferris and Timothy Rizzo responded and called for backup officers with Tasers because they are not certified to use them.

As Rizzo opened a door to let the Taser-wielding officers in, Norwood ran at Ferris with the knife, officials said. Ferris fired four shots, three of which hit Norwood in the arm, chest and abdomen.

Norwood was taken to Ellis Hospital and was airlifted to Albany Medical Center Hospital.

It's unclear why Norwood, who family members say was suicidal, wound up at the building.

Reach Paul Nelson at 454-5347 or pnelson@timesunion.com.

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