LaToya Ratlieff Awarded $1.975 Million in Settlement with Fort Lauderdale Police
Incident and Injury
In May 2020, LaToya Ratlieff was shot in the face with a rubber bullet fired by a Fort Lauderdale Police officer during a protest against the murder of George Floyd. The incident left Ratlieff with severe injuries, including a broken eye socket, nerve damage, and a 20-stitch gash on her forehead that left a scar.
Settlement and Reactions
After filing a civil lawsuit against the city in 2022, Ratlieff was awarded a settlement of $1,975,000 by Fort Lauderdale city commissioners. Ratlieff expressed relief and a sense of justice, saying, "This is done. I got justice." Her attorney described the decision as a "win-win."
Physical and Emotional Scars
Ratlieff suffered permanent loss of vision and was left with mental scars. She stated, "Physically, there’s a part of me that will never be the same. The emotional baggage is hard."
Investigation and Liability
The detective who fired the shot was cleared of all wrongdoing in 2021. In September, a judge ruled that the officers had qualified immunity and would not be held liable, but that the city could be held accountable.
City Response
Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis apologized to Ratlieff and expressed regret for the incident. However, he was surprised by Ratlieff’s decision to sue, saying that she had previously indicated she was not seeking damages but rather wanted to bring about change in the police department.
Conclusion
LaToya Ratlieff’s settlement with Fort Lauderdale Police marks a significant milestone in her quest for justice and compensation for the injuries she suffered during the protest. The incident highlights the need for police accountability and reform, and Ratlieff’s determination serves as a testament to the importance of holding those in power accountable.
FAQs
Q: What happened to LaToya Ratlieff during the protest?
A: Ratlieff was shot in the face with a rubber bullet fired by a Fort Lauderdale Police officer during a protest against the murder of George Floyd.
Q: What injuries did Ratlieff suffer as a result of the incident?
A: Ratlieff suffered a broken eye socket, nerve damage, and a 20-stitch gash on her forehead that left a scar.
Q: Who was cleared of wrongdoing in the investigation?
A: The detective who fired the shot was cleared of all wrongdoing in 2021.
Q: What was the outcome of the lawsuit?
A: LaToya Ratlieff was awarded a settlement of $1,975,000 by Fort Lauderdale city commissioners.
