Activist Injured by Rubber Bullet Wins $2m Settlement

Activist Injured by Rubber Bullet Wins $2m Settlement

Introduction

A Fort Lauderdale activist injured by a police officer's rubber bullet during a 2020 protest has reached a nearly $2 million settlement with the city.

The incident occurred on May 31, 2020

The incident occurred on May 31, 2020, during nationwide protests against police brutality following George Floyd's death in Minneapolis. The rubber bullet struck the activist in the face, causing a fractured eye socket and lasting trauma.

The plaintiff's testimony

“My life has dramatically changed since the protest,” the plaintiff said in a statement following the settlement’s approval. “What I once considered normal is now replaced with ongoing trauma and disability. Despite moments when I felt ready to give up, I focused on the importance of this case—not just for me, but for everyone seeking to use their voice to create meaningful change.”

$1,975,000 settlement

The $1,975,000 settlement, which includes attorneys' fees, was approved by the Fort Lauderdale City Commission. Mayor Dean Trantalis commended the city’s legal team and expressed hope that the agreement would bring closure. However, the city still faces another potential legal challenge. In May 2024, the plaintiff's attorneys filed a class-action lawsuit in federal court seeking broader accountability.

The plaintiff's attorney's statement

During the commission meeting, one of the plaintiff’s attorneys highlighted the importance of the settlement. “This is a fair resolution for the city, the public, and our client. It underscores the need for the police department to adopt practices that safeguard the rights of citizens while preserving peaceful First Amendment activities.”

Prevention methods

As part of the agreement, the city will implement SWAT, tactical, and training policies aligned with standards from the National Tactical Officers Association and the International Association of Chiefs of Police. These policies aim to ensure proper crowd management and control, preventing similar incidents in the future.

“For over four years, I’ve advocated for meaningful changes within the Fort Lauderdale Police Department,” the plaintiff stated. “This settlement is a step forward. While I have no doubt that a jury could have awarded more, my motivation was never monetary. What happened to me must never happen to anyone else.”

The plaintiff hopes the settlement will lead to improved practices and lasting reform within the police department while serving as a reminder of the importance of protecting peaceful protestors.