Jury Finds Excessive Force in Fatal Police Shooting of Teen in Mental Crisis
Deadly Encounter
On a fateful night in August 2019, a tragedy unfolded in Buena Park, California. David Patrick Sullivan, a 19-year-old struggling with mental health issues, stole a car and led police on a brief pursuit. After crashing into a police vehicle and injuring a pedestrian, Sullivan was ordered to stop.
Driven by a perceived threat, Officers Bobby Colon and Jennifer Tran opened fire, striking Sullivan four times. He was unarmed.
Family’s Fight for Justice
Sullivan’s family was shattered by his untimely death. Undeterred, they sought justice in the courtrooms. They hired lawyers who presented compelling evidence of Sullivan’s mental breakdown during the incident.
Trial and Aftermath
In 2020, the Orange County District Attorney’s Office declined to charge the officers, finding the shooting justified. However, a civil jury in Santa Ana reached a different conclusion in a recent retrial.
Landmark Verdict
After a grueling trial, the jury unanimously sided with Sullivan’s family. They awarded .5 million in damages, recognizing the excessive force used by the police.
A Justice Denied
The jurors saw through the officers’ claims of fearing for their lives. Sullivan’s apparent suicide note and the determination that he was mentally distressed at the time painted a stark picture of a life lost unnecessarily.
A Damaging History
The LA News Center has uncovered a troubling pattern in Buena Park. In recent years, the city’s police force has been implicated in multiple incidents of excessive force, leading to lawsuits and public outrage.
Seeking Accountability
The verdict in this case serves as a wake-up call for law enforcement. It underscores the importance of proper training and de-escalation techniques. When police officers use excessive force, they not only violate the law but also erode public trust in the very institution they are sworn to protect.
A Promise to the Fallen
Sullivan’s family has received a measure of justice. Yet, their pain remains. They hope that this verdict will bring awareness to the dangers of police brutality and serve as a reminder of the life of a young man who was taken from them too soon.
Data sourced from: ktla.com
