Resident James Milburn alleges wrongful arrest, seeks special prosecutor

James Milburn addressed the council during the public-comment period with a series of allegations about his treatment by law enforcement and the court system and a request for the city to provide or seek a special prosecutor or a declination letter.

Milburn said he had been held in solitary confinement for 18 days with constant lighting and continuous monitoring and described that condition as "torture." He told the council he had submitted documentation and a "master compendium" alleging legal and ethical violations by officers and court personnel, and that he intended to include the city in a planned lawsuit. Milburn said he wanted video evidence and other records preserved and available for review.

Nut graf: Milburn asked the council to request a special prosecutor to review his case or to provide an explanation in the form of a declination or charges letter; city representatives said they had received his materials and would review them, but emphasized the council meeting was not a court of law.

During the exchange the Chair asked what the matter had to do with the city of Waterloo; Milburn replied that the city would be listed in his lawsuit and pointed to specific court interactions he attributes to a city attorney named in the transcript. A city official acknowledged receipt of the materials and said staff would look into the matter. No formal council action was taken during the meeting on Milburn's request.

Ending: The public-requested next steps were preservation of evidence and review by city staff; Milburn indicated he would pursue civil claims and requested a special prosecutor.