Wrongful Death Suit Filed In New Jersey Police Shooting

Paterson, New Jersey, has been named as a defendant in a wrongful death lawsuit filed in connection to a 2012 police shooting. The lawsuit was filed by the brother of a 38-year-old man who was shot dead by a Paterson police officer. The plaintiff alleged that the police officer’s negligence and misconduct caused the victim’s death.

Allegedly, the police officer shot the man’s brother without reasonable cause or provocation. The federal lawsuit was filed after the city experienced three police shooting incidents within seven days. The authorities stated that the plaintiff’s brother was seen with a gun. Police then advised the victim to show his hands. They claimed the victim tucked the firearm in his waistband instead. After that, one police officer, another defendant in the wrongful death lawsuit, shot and fatally wounded the victim in the back.

The police claim they discovered a handgun below the victim’s body but no trace of fingerprints on it. The victim’s family questioned the legality of the shooting and the facts about the firearm. The plaintiff’s attorney stressed that they want to have all the necessary information before making specific allegations about the details of the shooting incident.

Two other wrongful death lawsuits were filed against the police department in Paterson, New Jersey. One claim is seeking $30 million, while the other seeks $130 million. Both claims involve victims who died due to alleged misconduct of the officers.

When a person is killed due to the negligence or wrongful conduct of another, surviving family members have the right to bring a wrongful death suit to recover damages. By doing so, the family may not only receive compensation, but also peace of mind in the passing of their loved one.

Source:  North Jersey, “Paterson hit with wrongful death lawsuit from 2012 police shooting,” Joe Malinconico, Jan. 6, 2013