Denver, Colorado – Six Individuals injured during a Police involved shooting in July of 2022 have been awarded close to Twenty Million Dollars in damages after a civil trial concluded in their favor on Friday. The ample financial award follows a lawsuit filed against the Denver Police Department related to the incident.
The award of $19.7 million recognizes the harm suffered by the bystanders when Officer Brandon Ramos opened fire during an encounter with a suspect,Jordan Waddy,in Denver’s Lower Downtown area. Waddy sustained injuries but survived the shooting.
officer Admits Guilt,Resigns
Officer Ramos previously entered a guilty plea to a misdemeanor assault charge,receiving probation and forfeiting his ability to continue serving as a law enforcement officer. He afterward resigned from the Denver Police Department in February of 2024.
Authorities stated that Ramos was a member of a gun violence prevention team patrolling the bustling entertainment district when the shooting occurred. The officers were responding to a situation involving Waddy, who had displayed a handgun.
Jury Findings Detail Negligence
The jury determined that Officer Ramos did not face an immediate threat because waddy had not directed the weapon towards him. Crucially, the panel concluded that ramos failed to adequately account for the presence of a large crowd standing in close proximity to waddy when he discharged his firearm.
The injuries to bystanders were varied, with one requiring surgery for a gunshot wound to the arm, another struck by a bullet that passed through their arm, and a third sustaining a graze wound to the foot.
Legal Teams Hail Jury’s Decision
Attorneys representing the plaintiffs released a joint statement expressing their satisfaction with the jury’s decision, asserting that it acknowledges the profound suffering endured by their clients at the hands of an officer entrusted with public safety.They emphasized that the outcome sends a powerful signal regarding appropriate police conduct.
“This verdict reaffirms that bystanders are not collateral damage in law enforcement encounters,” stated omeed Azmoudeh,lead counsel for the plaintiffs. “Their safety and well-being must be paramount, and officers are accountable for actions that jeopardize them.”
| Key Details of the Case | Data |
|---|---|
| Date of Shooting | July 17, 2022 |
| Location | Denver’s Lower Downtown Neighborhood |
| Total Damage Awarded | $19.7 Million |
| officer Involved | Brandon Ramos |
| Officer’s Current Status | Resigned from Denver Police Department |
Understanding Bystander Liability in Police Encounters
Cases like the Denver shooting raise crucial questions about the responsibilities of law enforcement officers and the rights of bystanders. According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, there has been a growing trend in recent years of increased scrutiny of police conduct and a demand for greater accountability. National Conference of State Legislatures
Did You Know? the “Castle Doctrine” and “Stand Your Ground” laws vary significantly from state to state, influencing the legal parameters surrounding self-defense and the use of force by law enforcement.
Pro Tip: If you find yourself near a police encounter, prioritize your safety. Maintain a safe distance, remain calm, and comply with any lawful instructions given by officers.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the meaning of the $19.7 million award in the Denver police shooting case? It represents a substantial acknowledgment of the harm caused to the bystanders and sends a message about police accountability.
- What were the key findings of the jury regarding Officer Ramos’ actions? The jury found that Officer Ramos did not face an immediate threat and failed to consider the presence of a crowd when firing his weapon.
- What happened to Officer Brandon Ramos following the shooting? He pleaded guilty to misdemeanor assault, received probation, lost his law enforcement certification, and subsequently resigned from the Denver Police Department.
- What are bystanders’ rights during a police encounter? Bystanders have the right to observe and record police activity as long as they do not interfere,and they have the right to seek legal recourse if injured due to police negligence.
- What is the growing trend regarding police conduct and accountability? There’s an increasing demand for greater transparency, accountability, and training in law enforcement practices nationwide.
Do you believe this ruling will lead to changes in police training and procedures? What role should bystanders play in documenting police interactions?
Share your thoughts in the comments below!
