Richard Susag v. City of Lake Forest, County of Orange, et al.
Published: Dec. 3, 2002 | Result Date: Jun. 11, 2002 | Filing Date: Jan. 1, 1900 |Case number: 806610 Verdict – $0
Judge
Court
Orange Superior
Attorneys
Plaintiff
Jeffrey S. Benice
(Law Offices of Jeffrey S. Benice)
Defendant
S. Frank Harrell
(Lynberg & Watkins)
Experts
Defendant
Mark N. Bailey
(technical)
Morris Claman
(medical)
Kendall S. Wagner M.D.
(medical)
Facts
On May 5, 1998, the plaintiff Richard Susag and his son Cory Susag were working at South County Autobody,
an auto repair establishment owned by Richard Susag. As a result of an altercation occurring outside the South
County business office, Deputy Chris Thompson sought to arrest Cory Susag. Cory left the altercation scene
and walked inside the South County business office. Richard Susag was present in the office when Cory
arrived. Deputy Thompson, and numerous back-up deputies, thereafter sought to arrest Cory inside the office.
As CoryÆs arrest unfolded, Deputy Thompson ordered back-up deputies to remove Richard Susag from the
scene. He was ultimately released at the scene without charges being filed.
The plaintiff then instituted a suit seeking recovery under federal and state law for
excessive force and false arrest and imprisonment.
Settlement Discussions
At the mandatory settlement conference, the plaintiff suggested he would settle for $50,000, which was rejected. No further settlement demand was made.
Damages
The plaintiff claimed unspecified general damages and special damages of $30,000.
Injuries
The plaintiff alleged a torn rotator cuff to his shoulder, a variety of soft-tissue injuries and on- going emotional distress.
Other Information
The plaintiff filed a motion for a new trial which was denied. The defendants filed a motion for an attorney fees which was denied.
Deliberation
five hours
Poll
12-0
Length
six days
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