Facts

In August 2011, Tamara Gaglione, who was pregnant, was pulled over by California Highway Patrol officers for talking on her phone. After she pulled over to the shoulder off the highway, the officers ordered her to get out of her car and put her hands up. She failed to do so. Consequently, the officers drew their guns, approached Gaglione, and pushed her to the asphalt and kicked her ribs. Next, another officer pressed his knee into her back, pinning her to the ground.

Gaglione was ultimately arrested and charged with resisting arrest and driving on a suspended license. The charges were eventually dismissed, and Gaglione pleaded no contested to talking on her cell phone while driving.

Later, Gaglione filed a lawsuit against the CHP and the involved officers, alleging civil rights violations including excessive force and malicious prosecution.

Result

The parties agreed to settle for $250,000.