HOUSTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Today, Houston-based rapper Jeffery C. Archangel, known by his stage name “Skyler Jones,” filed a federal lawsuit in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Texas, accusing the City of Houston and two police officers, David J. Crowder and Alexander S. Vinogradov, of gross misconduct that led to his wrongful arrest and imprisonment for over five years.
The lawsuit, filed by Archangel's legal team, Andino Reynal of Reynal Law Firm, PC seeks justice for the severe impact the wrongful arrest had on his life and career. Archangel was falsely accused of two serious crimes in 2017—an aggravated robbery and a capital murder—crimes that he did not commit. Despite maintaining his innocence, Archangel spent 4 years behind bars before the charges were dismissed in September 2022. The case from arrest to dismissal took 5 1/2 years.
The lawsuit details several allegations of misconduct by Houston Police Department officers, including falsifying evidence, withholding exculpatory material, and mishandling the investigation, which caused Archangel’s professional career as an up-and-coming recording artist to be permanently derailed.
"Mr. Archangel’s future was destroyed due to these reckless actions by the Houston Police Department. We will hold those responsible accountable for the years he unjustly spent in jail, and the life and career opportunities that were taken from him," said Reynal, Archangel's attorney.
The complaint further alleges systemic issues within the Houston Police Department, such as a lack of proper training, poor evidence-handling practices, and violations of constitutional rights under the Fourth and Fourteenth Amendments.
Archangel is seeking compensatory and punitive damages for his wrongful imprisonment, loss of income, and mental anguish.
About Jeffery C. Archangel (Skyler Jones):
Jeffery Archangel is a Houston-born rapper who was on the verge of signing a major recording contract when he was wrongfully arrested in 2017. Known by his stage name “Skyler Jones,” Archangel had been performing, recording, and building a promising music career between New York and Houston before his wrongful incarceration.
For more information about the lawsuit or to schedule an interview with Mr. Archangel or his attorney, please contact:
F. Andino Reynal
O: 713.228.5900