While many incidents of police misconduct escape justice, victims can sue and sometimes prevail. In fact settlements, judgements, and legal fees cost American cities billions every year. And guess who gets stuck paying? Before answering that question, consider the amount of money we’re talking about. In a 2013 case similar to George Floyd’s, Minneapolis police… Continue reading Cities Owe It (Literally) to Their Citizens to Reform Policing: Counting the Crazy-High Cost of Misconduct
Tag: police killings
One Way Courts Shield Police Misconduct
When a police officer deprives a person of their constitutional rights, the wrong can be righted a couple of ways. First, the officer can be disciplined or even prosecuted. Second, the victim can sue. Neither remedy works as well as it should, but there’s one reason lawsuits are especially difficult for victims to win. While… Continue reading One Way Courts Shield Police Misconduct
Cops, Race, and Crime: A Personal Statement
Most people wouldn’t guess this, but I once considered becoming a cop. I took several criminal justice courses in college and received my level-3 reserve officer certificate in California after basic arrest and firearms training. Many of my friends took a similar path and are police officers today. I ultimately decided against it. I would consider… Continue reading Cops, Race, and Crime: A Personal Statement