Eric Garner’s family files $75 million civil suit against NYC, NYPD
The family of Eric Garner, a black New York resident who died as a result of a chokehold performed on him by a New York police officer, has filed a $75 million civil suit against the city and police department.
The notice of claim was filed by lawyers at Rubenstein and Rynecki on Tuesday. It names several police officers whose identities had not been previously released.
Garner, a 43-year-old father of six, died on Staten Island while being arrested by police for allegedly selling single, untaxed cigarettes. The videotaped confrontation, which shows an officer placing him in a chokehold — which is banned by the NYPD — sparked public outrage.
Four EMS workers employed by the Richmond University Medical Center were suspended without pay after Garner’s death. The civil lawsuit does not mention any medical personnel by name.
The city comptroller’s office and the city Law Department said they were reviewing the notice of claim. The NYPD did not immediately comment.
The medical examiner ruled Garner’s death a homicide, finding that the chokehold killed him. Asthma, obesity and high blood pressure were also listed as contributing factors.
A grand jury is currently hearing evidence regarding the case to determine if charges will be filed against the officers involved.
Black lives matter.
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