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CONFIDENTIAL

Apr. 20, 1996

Civil Rights
Police Misconduct
Dog Bite

Confidential

Settlement –  $45,000

Court

L.A. Superior Norwalk


Attorneys

Plaintiff

Thomas E. Beck
(The Beck Law Firm)


Defendant

Richard S. Kemalyan

Timothy L. Walker


Facts

On November 29, 1989, the plaintiff, a 20-year-old construction worker who had just committed a burglary, fled to the roof of a commercial building. The defendant county responded to the burglary with the defendant city's canine patrol. The plaintiff was surrounded by law enforcement personnel but would not surrender. The canine was deployed and caused injuries to the plaintiff. The plaintiff brought this action against the defendants based on violation of civil rights and excessive force theories of recovery under 42 U.S.C. º1983.

Settlement Discussions

The plaintiff made a settlement demand for $75,000. The defendants' offers, if any, were not disclosed.

Specials in Evidence

$10,000 unknown

Damages

The plaintiff alleged that he sustained physical scarring to his arm, emotional distress and trauma as a result of the incident.

Injuries

The plaintiff alleged that he sustained lacerations to his skull requiring sutures and bites to his right arm requiring stitches and brief hospitalization as a result of the incident.

Result

A settlement conference was held on the first day of trial resulting in the settlement.

Other Information

The settlement was reached approximately five years and three months after the case was filed.


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