Lawsuit alleges Lincoln Police sergeant strangled woman during arrest
By: -----
Lincoln, NE - A Lincoln woman filed a federal lawsuit Wednesday accusing a longtime Lincoln Police sergeant of using excessive force during her arrest in 2023.
The lawsuit, filed by 37-year-old Nicole Birkes, alleges Sgt. Jeffrey Urkevich, a 28-year veteran of the department, strangled her while she was restrained on a gurney, causing physical and emotional harm.
Birkes was arrested on Sept. 24, 2023, following an incident at Steve O’s Lounge in northwest Lincoln. According to an arrest affidavit, she allegedly pulled a knife on a friend and later headbutted him, breaking his nose. She was charged with making terroristic threats.
The lawsuit claims that after her arrest, Birkes was Tased when she failed to comply with commands to lie on the ground. Officers then strapped her arms and legs to a gurney to transport her for medical care.
While restrained, Birkes allegedly became distressed after being denied a phone call to arrange care for her dogs. Although court documents state she did not make threats or assault anyone at that time, the lawsuit claims Urkevich placed a hood over her head and strangled her as she pleaded for help.
Birkes says she suffered emotional trauma from the incident and has spent more than $28,000 on therapy and medication. She is seeking a jury trial in Lincoln and the following:
* At least $38,000 in medical expenses
* Compensatory damages for alleged constitutional violations
* Punitive damages
* Attorney’s fees
* Court costs and any other relief deemed appropriate