NEW YORK (VINnews) — A Brooklyn man who authorities say was mistaken for a drug suspect during an undercover police operation is preparing to sue New York City for $100 million after he was beaten by officers in an encounter captured on viral video.

Timothy Brown said he had entered a neighborhood liquor store after work when undercover narcotics detectives moved to arrest him, allegedly believing he matched the description of a man linked to a drug sale. According to reports, officers focused on Brown in part because he was wearing green shorts similar to those worn by the suspect they were seeking.

Brown’s legal team says he was an innocent bystander caught in a case of mistaken identity and then subjected to excessive force. Video of the confrontation sparked widespread outrage and prompted an internal police investigation.

Brown says he suffered serious injuries and lasting trauma. His attorneys argue the planned lawsuit seeks accountability for what they describe as wrongful arrest and police misconduct.

City officials have criticized the incident. Mayor Zohran Mamdani called the footage disturbing, while Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch said the detectives involved were placed on modified duty as the department reviews the case.

The case has intensified scrutiny of undercover narcotics tactics and the consequences when police target the wrong person.