Abner Louima is a Haitian immigrant who became widely known after a violent incident involving the New York City Police Department in 1997. He was arrested during a nightclub altercation and subsequently suffered severe abuse while in police custody, including a brutal assault that led to serious injuries. The case drew significant public attention and sparked outrage over police brutality and misconduct. Louima later filed a civil lawsuit against the city and received a settlement. His experience contributed to ongoing discussions about police reform and accountability in the United States, highlighting issues related to the treatment of individuals in custody.