The Associated Press
HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) - The city has agreed to a $7.9 million settlement with a 23-year-old man who suffered brain injuries when his car was struck by a police cruiser three years ago, the victim’s lawyer said Thursday.
Mayor Eddie Perez issued a statement Thursday apologizing to Christopher Smith and his family. Perez was expected to apologize to the family in person Friday as part of the settlement of Smith’s lawsuit against the city.
Smith was injured on Nov. 7, 2001, when a police cruiser chasing a suspect crashed into his car. His lawyer, Vincent J. Trantolo, said the officer blew through a stop sign in the city’s North End at 54 mph and hit Smith’s car. Smith was left partially paralyzed and will need special care the rest of his life, Trantolo said.
The settlement was reached Oct. 28, Trantolo said.
The officer involved in the wreck, Robert Maldonado, was suspended for five days. He remains on the force.
Hartford police have initiated a new practice during roll calls, where policies and procedures on pursuits and appropriate use of lights and sirens are reviewed.
“This program will continue, in good faith, for as long as necessary to impress upon every officer the importance of ensuring the safety of the public while engaged in the pursuit and apprehension of criminals,” Perez said.
Every pursuit is reviewed and documented to ensure it complies with police policy, Perez said. The review focuses on safety concerns and risks involved in pursuits.
A call to Hartford’s corporation counsel was not immediately returned.