Developments in Breonna Taylor case a hopeful sign for civil rights cases against former Wauwatosa officer Mensah

Four current and former Louisville, Kentucky police officers are facing federal civil rights changes for the botched raid that led to the death of Breonna Taylor. A local civil rights attorney and activist said this could open the door for justice for local families.

"Breonna Taylor should be alive today," said U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland.

The death of Taylor fueled racial justice protests nationwide and in Milwaukee. The tragedy, according to attorney Kim Motley, opened many eyes.

"I think with these unfortunate deaths that what it put to the forefront is people questioning the system, people questioning certain police officers that were involved in the system," said Motley.

Motley represents three families in southeast Wisconsin, including the families of Alvin Cole, Jay Anderson Jr., and Antonio Gonzales. All were shot by former Wauwatosa police officer Joseph Mensah. Each case was investigated and deadly force was justified.

Motley has filed civil law suits for all three victims. Most recently for Cole at the end of July.

"We just want accountability, we want bottom line accountability and we want the truth to understand and know what exactly happened," said Motley.

Activist Vaun Mayes said the new developments in the Taylor case are an example of what the search and drive for the truth and justice can achieve.

"It’s a blueprint and it should show that you know you cannot always just accept whatever the investigation is and move forward," said Mayes.

Motley said she's hopeful justice will be served to many.

"I certainly hope that this is going to create a groundswell and set precedents. Frankly, it’s a long time coming. Everyone should be held accountable to the same laws," said Motley.