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$10 Million Settlement Reached in Seattle Police Excessive Force Suit

A $10 million settlement was reached between King County and the family of Christopher Sean Harris in an excessive force suit.

            The case arose in May 2009 when Harris was wrongfully identified as a suspect in an assault that occurred at a convenience store in King County, Washington. The witness pointed Harris out to Deputy Matthew Paul and another deputy. After being chased several blocks, Harris stopped, raising his hands. Deputy Paul delivered a “hard shove” to him. Harris’ head struck a concrete wall, resulting in catastrophic brain injury. Harris, who can’t speak and is bedridden, will require around-the-clock care for the rest of his life.

            The suit, filed by Sarah Harris, his wife, raised the issue of excessive force. It was settled in January 2011, awarding Harris’ family $10 million in damages. Harris was represented by Seattle attorney Jim Osborn.

Source: Seattle Times

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