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Civil Rights
Prisoners' Rights
Excessive Force

Howard Eley, Robert Hunter v. County of Sacramento

Published: Aug. 1, 2009 | Result Date: Nov. 14, 2008 | Filing Date: Jan. 1, 1900 |

Case number: 06CV00457(GEB) Verdict –  Defense

Court

USDC Eastern


Attorneys

Plaintiff

Gary W. Gorski

Daniel M. Karalash


Defendant

Thomas A. Cregger
(Cregger & Chalfant LLP)


Experts

Plaintiff

Timothy Twomey
(technical)

Facts

Robert Hunter, 50, is a veterinarian who was jailed at the Sacramento County Main Jail for DUI. He and Howard Eley alleged that officials at the jail used excessive force while detaining them. They sued the county of Sacramento on Monell claims.

Contentions

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS:
The plaintiffs claimed that the use of excessive force constituted an unofficial custom and practice at the jail.

DEFENDANT'S CONTENTIONS:
The defense denied the plaintiffs' claims.

Settlement Discussions

The plaintiffs demanded $200,000, while the defense offered $7,500.

Damages

Hunter sought $68,000.

Injuries

Hunter suffered a fractured elbow.

Result

The jury found in favor of the defense.


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