Minneapolis has resolved a lawsuit by agreeing to pay $600,000 to Patty Day, a former Public Works Department employee, after she accused ex-Officer Derek Chauvin of applying excessive force in a disturbing incident that recalls his later actions in the George Floyd case. This settlement sheds light on the broader debate concerning police misconduct and reforms.
The case dates back to January 2020, four months before Chauvin's infamous encounter with George Floyd. Day alleged that Chauvin and his partner, Officer Ellen Jensen, forcefully removed her from her vehicle during a traffic stop and pinned her to the ground, causing her injuries. She was reportedly intoxicated and trapped in the snow that night, dealing with emotional distress related to her divorce.
A judge in a subsequent trial dismissed a drunken driving charge against Day, citing a lack of probable cause for her arrest and throwing out related blood alcohol test results. This legal victory paved the way for the $600,000 settlement, unanimously approved by the Minneapolis City Council. Of this settlement, $175,000 will be allocated to Day while $425,000 will cover her legal expenses.
This agreement adds to a growing list of financial reparations by Minneapolis in cases involving Chauvin, with over $36 million paid out, including $27 million to the family of George Floyd. City Council member LaTrisha Vetaw acknowledged the settlement on Thursday, emphasizing its importance in holding officers accountable.
The settlement is part of a continued call for justice and policing reforms, as highlighted by Day's attorney, Katie Bennett. She stated, While no settlement can undo what Patty endured, we are thankful for the resolution that enforces accountability on the responsible officers, highlighting the pressing need for changes in law enforcement practices.
Derek Chauvin, whose actions led to George Floyd's death and subsequent nationwide protests against racial injustice, is serving time in a federal prison in Texas following his murder conviction and a separate federal conviction related to civil rights violations.
This recent settlement serves as yet another stark reminder of the pressing need for comprehensive police reform and justice — a message that continues to resonate across the United States. As Minneapolis and other cities strive for change, the focus remains on preventing future cases of police misconduct and ensuring justice for victims.