Facts

Antonio Rendon and Valentina Rendon, individually, and as successors in interest to Alejandro Rendon sued the City of Indio and Richard Twiss, in connection with Alejandro's death.

PLAINTIFFS' CONTENTIONS:
Plaintiffs Antonio and Valentina alleged that their son Alejandro died on Feb. 14, 2013, as a result of defendants' civil rights violations. Plaintiffs alleged that 23-year-old Alejandro, had been visiting friends and family in the area to deliver Valentine's Day greetings and gifts. Plaintiffs claimed he was then pursued by an Indio police officer as he rode his bicycle. Plaintiffs claimed that then, without warning or probable cause, the officer fired multiple shots at Alejandro, killing him.

Plaintiffs alleged that their son was unarmed and did not pose a threat to anyone. Plaintiffs asserted claims for unlawful seizure and excessive force, deprivation of their due process rights to familial relationships with the decedent, and unconstitutional municipal customs, practices, and policies.

DEFENDANTS' CONTENTIONS:
Defendants denied plaintiffs' allegations, and asserted various affirmative defenses.

Result

The jury rendered a verdict in favor of the plaintiffs and awarded them $1.925 million in total damages, which included $175,000 for Antonio, $750,000 for Valentina, and $1 million for Alejandro.

Other Information

FILING DATE: April 11, 2013.