In Des Moines, Washington, a family whose dog was killed by police officers in 2010 has finally settled their civil suit. According to attorney Adam Karp, who discussed the case on Feb. 20, the owners of Rosie the Newfoundland have agreed to a settlement of $51,000 plus attorney's fees from the Des Moines Police Department.
Charles and Deirdre Wright filed a civil suit with the city after their dog was fatally shot. The suit, which totaled $600,000, was filed on the two-year anniversary of Rosie's death.
Rosie had escaped from her yard in Nov. 2010. Officers were called to the scene after someone reported a loose dog. The officers, who claimed that Rosie was behaving aggressively, tazed the frightened dog. A chase ensued and Rosie ran to an adjoining yard. The police officers shot her multiple times and she succumbed to her injuries just outside of her home.
While the police officers involved in the shooting claimed that Rosie was aggressive, a dash cam and witnesses disputed this.
After an extended legal battle, the Wrights' case is finally settled.
Karp discussed the case on Wednesday, Feb. 20.
"On Jan. 19, 2013, the City of Des Moines and Officers Graddon and Wieland offered to confess judgment against them in the sum of $51,000 plus reasonable attorney's fees and costs," Karp stated.
"On Jan. 29, 2013, the Wrights accepted this offer.
"Pending is a motion for attorney's fees and costs, which would be added to judgment of $51,000."
On Feb. 15, the Defendants asked for information about those who had supported the Wrights' case.
"The Defendants propounded written requests to the Wrights, including inquiries into the amounts donated by various kindhearted individuals who were incensed by the slaying of Rosie," Karp stated.
"Indeed, the City and Officers' insistence in seeking such information appears to have no purpose other than to harass the Wrights, harass the donors, and chill efforts by outraged citizens seeking to assist in the efforts of victims seeking justice against government wrongdoers.
"Unless ordered by the court, the Wrights will not disclose donor identities," Karp added.
On advice of counsel, the Wrights will not be giving interviews or commenting further until the court rules on the fee motion.
A full story, including all of Karp's comments on this case, will be published on Pasado's Safe Haven's website later this week.
Updates to this story will be posted as they occur.
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