Federal Jury Finds Excessive Force by Springfield Police Officer Hervieux, City Responsible
After seven days of trial, on January 30, 2019, a federal jury in Boston awarded Lee Hutchins of Springfield $250,000, finding that Springfield Police Officer Thomas Hervieux used excessive force against him during a January, 2013 arrest. Mr. Hutchins was represented at trial by STRH lawyers, David Hoose, Luke Ryan and Samantha LeBoeuf. Mr. Hutchins had previously been acquitted of all criminal charges arising from his arrest in a trial in the Springfield District Court in 2014, at which he was represented by Attorney Ryan.
The federal jury also found the City of Springfield liable for failing to appropriately discipline and supervise its officers after numerous previous complaints of excessive force. The jury found that the City’s deliberate indifference to the civil rights of its citizens was the moving force behind the violation of Mr. Hutchins’ constitutional rights.
According to news reports, the jury’s verdict has prompted Springfield city councilors to review its policies with respect to investigation and discipline relating to allegations of excessive force by its officers.
To read more:
- Federal jury awards $250,000 in Springfield police brutality case
- Springfield City Councilor Orlando Ramos: ‘I want answers’ after city slapped with $250,000 jury award in police brutality case:
- Springfield leaders react to settlement in alleged police brutality case