When the NYPD arrived on his doorstep, after responding to his call regarding an excessive noise complaint, instead diffusing the situation without violence, violence is exactly what they delivered. The man wants that the officers in question be reprimanded and all charges against him be dropped. This charge of excessive force in New York City may not be baseless because much of the incident was captured on video.
Video from handheld recorders and stationary security cameras show multiple uniformed NYPD officers swarming the victim, grappling with him, and pinning him to a picnic table all while he screaming that he’s not fighting them. The violence erupted after an officer is seen reaching toward the victim’s pocket—perhaps looking for ID—without first asking permission or arresting the man.
The incident began when the victim approached a car that had pulled into the parking lot outside his family’s bagel shop to tell the occupants to keep the noise down. It turns out that the occupants of the car were actually plainclothes police officers involved in traffic interdiction. At least one of the officers inside the car claims that the victim began yelling and using expletives. Shortly, there were approximately a dozen officers at the location.
Even with video evidence, proving a claim in court of excessive force in New York City against NYPD officers can be extremely difficult. However, many such claims are settled before they ever go to trial. Settlements allow The City of New York to save face by not admitting guilt as well as save money by offering figures significantly lower than a victim might be awarded by a jury. However, such settlements do have significant advantages for the victims as well. A quick settlement and avoidance of a legal battle can be persuasive enough for one to accept a monetary offer in lieu of a trial.
However, before you a decision you need to speak with an experienced excessive force attorney in New York City. Call the Law Offices of Nussin S. Fogel at 800-734-9338 or 212-385-1122 for your free consultation.