Man shot by Pittsfield Township police officer files federal lawsuit
A man who was shot by a Pittsfield Township police officer in January as he was being sought during a domestic violence investigation filed a federal lawsuit today alleging the officer used excessive force and the township failed to properly train her.
Devin Reddick, 30, is suing Officer Tracy Yurkunas and the township, seeking an unspecified amount of money.
Yurkunas could not be reached for comment this afternoon. The township's attorney, Jim Fink, declined to comment, saying he hasn't seen the suit.
The suit alleges the department failed to properly train Yurkunas "not to use unreasonable, unnecessary or excessive force while dealing with unarmed subjects.”
Reddick was shot in the abdomen shortly after he got out of the driver's side of a car on Jan. 15 and turned to face Yurkunas in the parking lot of the Rosewood Village condominium complex off Primrose Lane, a patrol car video obtained by AnnArbor.com shows. He was taken to a hospital, where he was treated for his injuries and released.
According to the suit, Reddick was holding a cell phone in one of his hands when he exited the car. The suit claims Yurkunas falsely alleged that she ordered him to “drop the weapon” several times before shooting him.
According to the suit, Reddick suffered pain, fear and humiliation and must pay significant medical and legal bills as a result of the township and Yurkunas violating his civil rights.
Washtenaw County prosecutors said Monday that they would not file criminal charges against Yurkunas after they took a second look at the case.
Reddick is scheduled to return to court on April 18 for a pretrial hearing on misdemeanor charges of domestic violence, driving with a suspended license and refusing to be fingerprinted.
Lee Higgins covers crime and courts for AnnArbor.com. He can be reached by phone at (734) 623-2527 and email at leehiggins@annarbor.com.
Comments
Ron
Tue, Apr 5, 2011 : 11:18 a.m.
0:21 She says I dont know she admitts she was not in the right frame of mind at the time of the shooting, she has NO idea of what she seen or done. looks like the guy wins because all I seen was him opening the door and getting out and freaking out over a gun aimed at him and he decided to run, that was not a reason to shoot him at all.
Goodphotographer
Mon, Apr 4, 2011 : 3:31 a.m.
First off, why is this story of a lawsuit in the crime section. If this is the only suit in court I guess that would be a crime. Second, after watching the tape, I feel it should be used in a video of 'what not to do when pulled over'. If it walks like a duck and quacks it could get cooked like a goose. It's an unfortunate situation no matter how you look at it. I'm sure given a do over hands would be raised, quickly. A teachable moment perhapts. Smart money says most of us know that type of exit when pulled over can get you worse than treated and released. Luck has nothing to do with it. Then there are those that say what if? Well...What if? What if you were pulled over? Would you jump out the car and run after being told otherwise? One wrong doesn't make a right
trespass
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 10:56 p.m.
The outcome of a trial might depend on the instructions given to the jury. For example, can an officer shoot based upon mere suspicion that the suspect is drawing a gun or must the officer have probable cause. That may not be the proper legal verbage but lawsuits often turn on the judges decision as to what the law requires.
Roadman
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 7:52 p.m.
I certainly hope that the command officers of the Pittsfield P.D. take a cue from this tape and reassess any internal policies or training regimens so that this type of incident does not occur. The salient feature I see regarding this incident that causes me to pause is the difference of reaction to Reddick by the officers with the parked squad cars who made no attempt to stop Reddick on one hand and the unholstering and drawing of her firearm by Yurkunas toward a a man who is simply alighting from his vehicle. An interesting aspect of this case is that no-fault insurance coverage exists in Michigan for those who are injured as they alight from their motor vehicle, so out-of-pocket wage loss and medical bills would be payable by his no-fault carrier.
BigSexy76
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 6:10 p.m.
The suspect's behavior and actions lead to the officer's decision to use excessive force. The officer could not take a chance on the suspect possibly pulling out an weapon and using it on her. You cannot pause and think when you are in a situation that is a matter of life and death. The officer's reaction was justified and will help get this lawsuit tossed out of court
Matt Cooper
Sat, Apr 2, 2011 : 2:54 a.m.
The other officers didn't see the suspect exit his vehicle and appear to reach into his pants. So to try to mindread them and assume you know what they felt or were thinking is kind of nonsensical.
Atticus F.
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 6:13 p.m.
the police need to be more careful. None of the other officers saw this person as a deadly threat. What if this officer shot your child because they made a 'sudden move' as a result of not knowing how to react. I'm sure you would be singing a different tune.
Atticus F.
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 3:53 p.m.
To all of the people who are saying this officer did the right thing, let me ask you a question... Would you have the same reaction if this was a soccer mom with a car full of kids, who had been shot after being accused of domestic violence? And if not, you need to be asking yourself why. Hopefully this comment wont be removed by a heavy handed moderator.
Roadman
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 10:45 p.m.
@genetracy: You are in error on both the Malice Green and Lee brothers cases. Nevers and Budzyn were initially convicted of murder and later retried after those convictions were overturned and were convicted of manslaughter in the second trials. One deputy pled guilty in the Lee case for kicking Bruce Lee in the head with a steel-toed shoe and was fired. A second deputy was acquitted in the asphyxiation death of Clifton Lee, Jr. but later fired. Multimillion dollar payouts followed both the Green and Lee deaths.
genetracy
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 9:53 p.m.
Nevers' and Budzyn's conviction were later overturned due to the witch hunt nature of their trials. The last I checked, none of the deputies in the West Willow incident were covicted of anything. However, I guess being found guilty by cop hating liberals before any charges are ever filed or any trial occurs suffices.
Ricebrnr
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 8:25 p.m.
Sorry we weren't addressing your interpretation of the video were we? We were discussing the scenario you presented and its appropriateness for comparison in this context as well as requesting details as to its relevance. From this last and the previous response, no relevance. Got it no further follow up from me then.
Atticus F.
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 6:18 p.m.
Riceburner, I've seen police videos caught on tape, with people from all walks of life...And NEVER have I seen an officer shoot that quickly, without seeing an actual weapon. My interpretation of the video was that they guy jumped out of his car, was starteled, and was in the process of turning to run away when he was gunned down.
Ricebrnr
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 6:10 p.m.
So again, how many of your soccer moms jumped out of their vehicle, squared off against officers and had their hands in less that advantageous places after being pulled over from a domestic violence call? How many were subsequently shot or almost shot? Apple have you met orange?
Atticus F.
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 5:51 p.m.
Roadman, I think bornblu somehow has the idea that the safety of the police trumps the safety of the citizens they are supposed to protect.
Roadman
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 5:46 p.m.
@bornblu: What about officers such as Nevers and Budzyn , who were convicted of manslaughter? Nevers was afraid of an unknown object in the hand of Malice Green. What about the Lee brothers in West Willow. Deputy fired after jumping citizen with cell phone in his hand and asphyxiating him? Each incident must be decided on a case-by-case basis.
Atticus F.
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 5:37 p.m.
bornblu, her fears were unreasonable, and unfounded. And Riceburner, I know for a fact that we have had soccer moms who have been accused of domestic violence. Also, why would you simply assume this person had a criminal record before any fact were known? Oh wait...I think I know why.
bornblu
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 5:27 p.m.
In short Att., I would feel the same if it were a soccer mom, attorney, physician, homeless person; white, black or asian, etc. Officer Yurkanas "reaction" was a direct response to an action that invoked a "fear for her life" scenario, based on my interpretation of the video's available. As I mentioned in a previous post, my sympathy, support, and condolence go to the families of Officers such as Edward, Huff, Bonneau, and Nehasel, who gave their lives within the past year protecting others, such as you, I, and commentors on this forum. They do not go to the individual whose action brought this upon himself.
Ricebrnr
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 4:26 p.m.
And why don't we ever hear about soccer moms being "gunned down" in said scenario? Maybe cause most soccer mom's don't have a criminal record and/or jump out of vehicles at officers after having been reported for domestic violence. Also if there were children in this vehicle then the police might have reacted completely differently also. You should compare apples to apples, not pull irrelevant scenarios out of thin air.
Townie
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 3:24 p.m.
I was surprised someone could be shot like that and then just 'He was taken to a hospital, where he was treated for his injuries and released.' Did he even spend a night in the hospital? Sounds like he didn't so how serious could his injuries be? The Police Officer did seem a bit too quick to shoot and the other police on the scene seem to be surprised and I think one asked why. Settle this quickly and out of court.
Roadman
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 5:48 p.m.
Likely that the bullet never struck a major organ or artery. Reddick is plain lucky.
racerx
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 3:04 a.m.
Again, the officer's comments, "...I thought he had a gun or something..." This will be the defining line throughout Mr Reddick's suit. Regardless of what he previous did, or what he should had done, there was no justifiable cause to shoot him first, despite the outcome of the investigation. To continue, to fully see how Mr Reddick drove past two other police cars with the officers outside seems to show that they didn't feel that he was a threat, so why did Yurkunas? Didn't those other officers received the same radio tranmission as her? The message denoting how dangerous he was? Sorry, but I feel as though better judgement could had been excerised by Yurkunas. And I live in Pittsfield Township and have met Yurkunas. If this is the training that these officers received I'm scare for my life if I'm ever pulled over by Pittsfield Township even for a traffic violation.
Ypsi Skunk
Mon, Apr 4, 2011 : 6:56 a.m.
Service revolver? Seriously, when did the police stop carrying revolvers, the 90's. I heard she took the complaint from a call box while the flat foot was walking her beat.
Matt Cooper
Sat, Apr 2, 2011 : 12:50 a.m.
And yet again the point escapes you that if she perceives that her life is in danger she doesn't have to actually see a weapon. And for you to point out that she is possibly calmed by another officer proves...what? Taht she shot someone and was upset about it? As if that's somesign of guilt? I'd be upset after shooting someone, too. This does not in any way imply guilt of anything.
BigSexy76
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 6:15 p.m.
Walk a mile in Yurkuna's shoes and tell me what you would do? In this type of situation you dont have a few seconds to think whats going to happen next. You cannot take any chances when you have a suspect that is acting violent
Roadman
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 5:38 p.m.
When trying to explain the shooting to onsite fellow officers she stated words to the effect she thought he had a gun or something followed by "I don't know". She had to be repeatedly urged to calm herself by an onsite officer. Posssibly not the best person to have on a police force in a potential shooting situation.
Matt Cooper
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 3:25 p.m.
Now, I've listened to the tapes several times and I don't recall hearing her say anything at all about "I thought he had a gun or something...". Methinks you are stretching the story just a bit.
Roadman
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 3:18 p.m.
Thank you. I agree 100%. No basis to point her service revolver and fire. The officers Reddick drove past did not even signal him to stop. Why not?
DDOT1962
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 3:44 a.m.
Scared for your life? Now that's just silly.
genetracy
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 2:25 a.m.
A question. Would people be so upset if Reddick was white? Would you just label him as a resident of a trailer park who beats women and "had it coming"? But seeing Reddick is minority, he is automatic victim of police brutality and entitled millions of dollars in his lawsuit.
Ricebrnr
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 4:23 p.m.
unless he just admitted that he did not watch the video...
genetracy
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 3:36 p.m.
If you watched the video, it is obvious he is black.
Roadman
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 3:19 p.m.
I do not know if Reddick was white or not. It is irrelevant to me. He is a citizen.
Matt Cooper
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 1:23 a.m.
To those that question Ofc. Yurkulis training, I'm wondering...what police training do you have? What experience? Ever worked the road? What qualifies you as an expert on police training, tactics or proper conditions under which an ofc. might fire their weapon? Some here seem to think they know so much, I am genuinely interested in finding out what their qualifications are to so steadfastly pass judgement.
Matt Cooper
Sat, Apr 2, 2011 : 12:46 a.m.
I didn't ask what the lawyers qualifications, I asked what are the qualifications of those who think they have the training and expertise enough to know if this was a good shooting or not. I have a degree in criminal justice, and for that degree we are required to know at least a little about criminal laws regarding police conduct, traffic stops, investigation techniques, etc.. I've actually studied and written research papers on the subject of police shootings and whatnot. Can any of the other posters here make such a claim?
Roadman
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 3:14 p.m.
Bill Mc Henry, who represents Reddick, used to work for the firm founded by Konrad Kohl, who defended one of the officers charged in the Algiers Motel incident; his firm later specialized in defending civil lawsuits. Paul Broschay, another Fieger police misconduct specialst, is a former Detroit police officer. Fieger's firm retains specialists as expert witnesses who are often former police officials with graduate level training in criminal justice and police procedures. I am sure they accepted this case only after close evaluation.
trespass
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 12:48 p.m.
If you want us to understand the use of force policies of the police, why do they keep them secret?
Roadman
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 12:26 a.m.
I would urge all persons who oppose the incompetent and careless use of deadly force employed against Devin Reddick to send your e-mails and other communications to the Pittsfield Township Supervisor and Board of Trustees as well as the chief of police to protest the performance of the police department in that matter, including the conduct of Officer Tracy Yurkunas. There needs to be accountability so this type of incident will not happen again in Pittsfield Township.
DDOT1962
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 1:48 a.m.
Well, I'm sure Pittsfield officials will be overwhelmed by your singular voice of protest. Expect them to be slow to respond as they sift through the mountains of words you send them. Good-luck with that.
Roadman
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 12:15 a.m.
The Huron Valley Greens have been a strong local voice against police brutality. They provided public support for Dr. Catherine Wilkerson when she was criminally charged (and later acquitted) in connection with aiding a victim of excessive police force at U-M. They issued public statements denouncing the killing of Luqman Abdullah in Dearborn by the FBI. Expect them to demand accountability of the Pittsfield Township Police Department with respect to the incompetence and lack of professionalism in their treatment of Devin Reddick.
WLD1
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 6:52 p.m.
The only thing the township should be responsible for is medical bills. He should have used better Judgement, It only takes a split second of hesitation by an officer and she could be dead. She waits to see a gun and she could be dead. When an officer has a gun pointed at you, you do not make sudden moves like that. And if you do you deserve to get shot.
SillyTree
Mon, Apr 4, 2011 : 9:52 p.m.
It's sad. You both have a split second to decide what to do and either one or both can make a mistake. He did not deserve to get shot and she did not deserve to be put in that situation. Get over the idea of culpability and understand that we are all human and circumstance can lead to unfortunate consequence. There is no conspiracy, there is no fault, there is the human condition and it is not perfect.
steve h
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 11:58 p.m.
yes he did
Roadman
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 6:59 p.m.
He did not "deserve" to get shot.
friend12
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 5:20 p.m.
It's all about the money baby. Sure looks like he was making an aggressive move for something in his coat. This will be settled long before it goes to trial.
WLD1
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 6:41 p.m.
Your right but lets hope not.
Roadman
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 5:52 p.m.
It appears he was making a defensive move reflexively.
Ricebrnr
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 5:01 p.m.
Well see if the ambulance chaser has any better luck than this previous attempt <a href="http://www.dailytribune.com/articles/2010/11/12/news/doc4cdd9be8b3d7f296138775.txt" rel='nofollow'>http://www.dailytribune.com/articles/2010/11/12/news/doc4cdd9be8b3d7f296138775.txt</a> - lost But what keeps him in business... <a href="http://www.goerie.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080221/NEWS06/802210412/-1/NEWS" rel='nofollow'>http://www.goerie.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080221/NEWS06/802210412/-1/NEWS</a> - won $$
genetracy
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 3:48 p.m.
Ever hear of suicide by cop? It sounds like Reddick wanted to be shot. Why else would he not obey the officer's order, while their guns were drawn? He is not deaf and certainly not mentally challenged.
Roadman
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 12:20 a.m.
Hearing impairment does not necessarily denote deafness nor do the acts you mentioned give a reliable indication of his mental state or capabilities. That is why courts order mental competency exams.
genetracy
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 8:56 p.m.
Wow, what an inteligent response. Getting an early start on the Hash Bash? He was in court and nothing was mentioned about him needing a deaf interpreter to understand the judge. As for his mental capacity, he was able to formulate a plan to drive over and thump his girlfriend, leave the scene, and choose to ignore the police. He sure had the where-with-all to contact an ambulance chaser for his lawsuit.
Roadman
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 5:40 p.m.
No, but he had a cell phone in his hand. I have seen no proof of his hearing abilities or I.Q. results.
SillyTree
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 3:02 p.m.
The video appears to have been edited. It starts with a view from a squad car that does not have any cars in front of it. It immediately goes to a view that shows Officer Yurkunas' car. As her car is the only other car in the view and the first part of the video shows no cars, it is a fair assumption that the original view was from her car. From this video, it is impossible to tell what happened. It looks straightforward, but there is footage missing here that was left out for a reason. Whatever that reason is, I would not be willing to decide from this footage alone as to negligence on the part of either party.
SillyTree
Mon, Apr 4, 2011 : 9:45 p.m.
You misunderstand my intentions. I was only stating fact. Dallas is not fact. The video that was posted by annarbor.com was edited. There is no doubt because it jumped from one camera to another. In the movie industry, that is called an "edit." Alas, there was another video that was presumably unedited that revealed the officer saying to the aprehendee to put his hands up. No conspiracy is alleged. I was just asking for the truth, the whole truh and nothing but the truth. These statements are not redundant. You can tell the truth without it being whole or nothing but.
genetracy
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 3:45 p.m.
Edited video? The conspiracy theories begin. I wonder if any of the officers involved were in Dallas in November of 1963.
SillyTree
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 3:13 p.m.
I didn't know about the other video, but it only provides audio as the car was not pointed toward the scene.
trespass
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 3:10 p.m.
According to the police the video system had a malfunction and this was as much video as the video company could recover. That is also why the release of the video was delayed by two months.
Wolf's Bane
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 2:49 p.m.
I'm so relieved this was all caught on tape. See ya lawsuit!
Roadman
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 5:48 p.m.
I have seen some cases out of the U.S. Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals (which covers Michigan) that have held jury issues exist with less apparent culpability than this one.
trespass
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 2:46 p.m.
Where was her taser? She had two other officers immediately behind her and two more seconds away. Isn't the proper thing to do is pull your taser and have "lethal cover" from the other officers. It would be nice if the Pittsfield Police would release their "use of force" policy so we could see if she followed proper procedure in pulling her gun.
Matt Cooper
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 1:19 a.m.
Trespass, can you cite me a police policy from ANY department that requires an officer to use a Taser INSTEAD of a firearm when they feel their life is in danger? Anything at all, please, do some research and let me know what you come up with. Something from the police academy training manuals. Should be in there, right? Check the academy at WCC. Or the Detroit police have their own academy, maybe they have it. Check MSP, surely they have such a policy? Right?
Roadman
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 5:51 p.m.
Unless its a bayonet.
goblue041
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 4:41 p.m.
"Where was her taser"?? That is like the old joke - don't bring a knife to a gun fight.
braggslaw
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 2:27 p.m.
Strange turn of events. By not being reasonable and not listening to the officer... he might hit the lottery.
Roadman
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 9:30 p.m.
@Yourdad: We do not have medical reports so we do not know the extent of his physical injuries. People that are shooting victims often acquire post-traumatic stress disorder and can have other mental and emotional complications. Plaintiff's attorneys often advise their clients to see mental health providers to document such conditions for purposes of building a case.
yourdad
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 8:13 p.m.
A fine upstanding citizen for sure... <a href="http://www.annarbor.com/news/crime/man-shot-by-pittsfield-township-police-during-arrest-has-outburst-in-court/">http://www.annarbor.com/news/crime/man-shot-by-pittsfield-township-police-during-arrest-has-outburst-in-court/</a>
yourdad
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 8:08 p.m.
@Roadman... what permanent injuries do you speak of? The article says nothing of permanent injuries and unless you think that the kind of guy who would stand in front of a judge and throw a total temper tantrum is the kind that would actually feel embarrassed. I think that your too close to the case to be objective. This guy will probably make a little coin, but has already earned a lifetime of street credibility within his social circles.
braggslaw
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 6:20 p.m.
people should be responsible for the consequences of poor decisions
Roadman
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 5:39 p.m.
He may also have permanent injuries.
WalkingJoe
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 2:20 p.m.
Here's an idea, why don't we just eliminate all police agencies. That way all the criminals will not have their rights violated and they can do whatever they please. Then some good upstanding citizens will form vigilante groups like the old west days and start hanging people for petty crimes. I say this tongue in cheek because I firmly believe that most police officers are trying to do a good job and they have a job that most people don't want to do because of the danger and high degree of scrutiny.
Roadman
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 5:51 p.m.
I agree that most police officers are competent, act in good faith, and are an asset to their communities. I do not believe Yurkunas necessarily performed competently in this case, but she can seek a federal court adjudication if she so desires. So can Mr. Reddick.
tiredofmess
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 1:56 p.m.
First people run from the police everyday and they don't get shot at. The officer was poorly trained and pittsfield will pay.I hope that this will lead to better training that will prevent this from happining in the future.
Ricebrnr
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 4:39 p.m.
no but those squaring off and making other bad moves do tend to get perforated.
goblue041
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 4:39 p.m.
"First people run from the police everyday and they don't get shot at" -- If the suspect here had been running I am sure that no shot would have been taken - indicating that training 101 had been satisfied. That he did not run could indicate he was ready to make a stand and was even more dangerous. He knew what he had done and knew Police would be looking to investigate him - he should have exited the vehicle with hands visible and away from his body, or just staying in the car. You speak of training, are you trained in situations such as this enough that you can pass judgement on the training?
A2lover
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 1:47 p.m.
Ah, but you see, all this would not have come to light were it not for the second video. The police version of events, frequently leaning in their favor, would have been the one favored. Now the second video is available things are a bit different. Watching the alternative video it appears Ms. Yurkanas was rather hasty in pulling the trigger. Plus, once the victim started to evacuate the car I believe the good old standard command is "police, freeze!", not, "Oh, I think it's time to fire my weapon". She was behind the car door and back up was right there. Perhaps the Ann Arbor police should watch the show "Cops" on TV. They'd get some inking of how other constituencies are able to handle similar situations with poise, professionalism and efficiency.
Matt Cooper
Sat, Apr 2, 2011 : 12:39 a.m.
Actually, a good friend of mine who is a homicide detective says cadets are trained specifically to NOT use the word "freeze". So no, it's not a standard command. But...the armchair experts here already knew that as well. Right?
Ricebrnr
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 4:41 p.m.
And the rest of the comment was just as accurate...
grye
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 2:16 p.m.
This was Pittsfield Police, not Ann Arbor.
Rusnak
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 1:43 p.m.
This story needs a little clarity. It appears as if two officers were on the scene to investigate the domestic violence issue. The video doesn't tell us what happened before the shooting occurred, lights on vehicles are on, officer is out of here car etc... And lastly who's Reddick's attorney.
Roadman
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 5:38 p.m.
Bill Mc Henry of the Fieger firm represents Reddick. The author of the story should also tell us which judge was assigned the case.
Thomas
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 1:15 p.m.
Guilt is not the measurement to which self defense is measured. The fact is, she feared for her safety and she reacted. I applaud her and I stand by her.
Roadman
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 6:35 p.m.
Adham Farha, a Pittsfield businessman, was arrested and spent three days in jail after shooting an ARMED man who entered his vehicle and had a cocked hangun in his waitband that he displayed to Farha. Yurkunas has been preferential treatment since she is an officer.
grye
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 2:58 p.m.
But he didn't shoot, nor did he have a gun or any weapon. He sees a gun pointed at him. What would you do? Stand there calmly and wonder what all the commotion is about? Or would you possibly take some sort of evasive action? The inital comment was she feared for her safety and reacted. She was in a safer position behind the door than if she were to have approached the car with her gun drawn.
jcj
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 2:28 p.m.
gyre "Standing behind a door is better than standing beside it for protection but I would not bet my life on it stopping a bullet!" She did not have much choice in where she was going to stand. But you made it sound like she should have felt safe there by saying! "However, she had the vehicle car door for protection"
grye
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 2:25 p.m.
Standing behind the door is a standard defense mechanism to provide some protection. If she thought the door would be inadequate, she should have positioned the vehicle to utilize the entire car as a shield. She positioned herself in a defense manner with her gun drawn. Yet there was no mention of a gun being used during the domestic dispute. If I got out of the car seeing a gun pointed at me, I would probably duck or drop to the ground to avoid potentially being shot.
jcj
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 1:56 p.m.
gyre "However, she had the vehicle car door for protection" Contrary to what you may have seen in the cowboy movies! Where everyone hides behind a chair for protection while the bullets are flying. That is not the way it works. There would have been a lot of dead hero's! Standing behind a door is better than standing beside it for protection but I would not bet my life on it stopping a bullet!
grye
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 1:32 p.m.
If I feared for my safety and shot an unarmed person, I would be arrested, and probably convicted. Again, she thought he might have had a gun. hHwever, she had the vehicle car door for protection, may have been wearing an armored vest, and maybe should have waited another second before reacting.
J. Zarman
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 12:56 p.m.
Even the guilty should not be shot, unless they truly need to be harmed to stop them from harming an officer, or anyone else. And remember, guilt was not yet established; it may be established after a trial or a plea is entered and accepted. At the time the officer discharged her weapon, this guy was a suspect, in flight, with REPORTS conveyed. Even if you want to advocate "Shoot the guilty," Ddot, this guy's guilt won't be established for a while.
Roadman
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 12:31 a.m.
Devin Reddick is innocent until proven guilty. The internal investigation of the Pittsfield P.D. into the conduct of OfficerTracy Yurkunas is incomplete.
Atticus F.
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 1:41 p.m.
The officer was cleared of criminal charges, jcj. But a civil trial is a whole different ball game.
jcj
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 12:59 p.m.
"And remember, guilt was not yet established;" And neither has the officers guilt yet been established!
grye
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 12:54 p.m.
Because we do not have access to the tape prior to the officer standing behind the door with her gun aimed at the suspect, we do not know if she made any announce over her PA of her presence or any instructions she may have provided. The suspect exits the car and sees a police officer with gun pointed at him. His reaction is to move sideways very quickly. Not sure if he was trying to run, but I certainly would have been very startled and may have reacted in a similar way. She then shot him and afterwards you can hear someone say "put your hands up". I would say that the order of things should have been reversed. If he did not know the police car was off to the side, he could have reacted in such a manner seeing the officer with her gun aimed at him. This is very difficult and I understand the pressure police officers must deal with. However, based upon only the video clip, I would think the officer would be best served if she receives additional training and not to act as quickly as she did. Please watch the clip again and if you differ on your opinion, well that is your opinion. I am not a cop hater and have worked for law enforcement in the past. I will defend them when it is obvious that there is a life threatening situation. Since the suspect did not have a weapon, her actions may have been a bit hasty.
Matt Cooper
Sat, Apr 2, 2011 : 12:36 a.m.
As is clearly shown on the video taken from HER car, in which she is miked, you can clearly hear her shout something to the effect of "Get your hands up" well before the shot was fired. He had more than ample opportunity to comply with this legal order.
Roadman
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 12:34 a.m.
Officer Tracy Yurkunas clearly needs further training to be an effective police officer. She was clearly deficient in her response to a difficult situation.
Jimmy McNulty
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 12:20 p.m.
Waste of time and resources.
Roadman
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 12:36 a.m.
A person could of died, Jimmy. Negligent parties must be face justice and pay the piper. Officer Yurkunas will get her day in court.
DDOT1962
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 12:01 p.m.
What part of this case are all you supporters of Mr. Reddick unaware of????? From previous articles on this crime, this is a man that punched and choked a woman, then fled the scene in HER car! Are you telling me he was unaware the police would be searching for him? Are you telling me he was unaware there were police cars following him into that parking lot? Are you telling me he was unaware when he parked the car that there was a police car directly behind him with the lights flashing and an officer out with her gun drawn???? Are you telling me it was appropriate (or smart) of Reddick to make ANY move after he stopped his car without clear instructions from the officer with her gun drawn? A man commits a violent crime then steals a vehicle, but he has no sense that trouble might befall him???? Some who are supportive of Reddick seem to have authority issues and believe police are all trigger-happy yahoos. Officer Yarkunas, who had all the information about the crimes Reddick was alleged to have committed provided to her before this stop, reacted appropriately. Reddick did not. I sincerely hope there's no settlement.
yourdad
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 7:58 p.m.
then answer your jury request letter... otherwise you don't deserve any more of the story than that rest of the speculators.
grye
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 12:58 p.m.
Choked a woman, punched a woman. Nothing about a gun. Not saying Reddick is stellar citizen. But this may have been excessive. Would be nice to see more of the early video.
TruBlue
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 11:47 a.m.
PittTwp would be wise to settle this. The burden of proof is lower for a civil case and I am pretty sure he would be awarded some damages.
Roadman
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 12:37 a.m.
No argument there, TruBlue. It is a point lot on many of the supporters of Officer Yurkunas who have posted here.
jcj
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 11:26 a.m.
I don't think this guy deserves a dime and I hope he does not get a dime. But whether or not any government body can afford to pay should not have any bearing on where justice falls.
Roadman
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 12:39 a.m.
Officer Tracy Yurkunas will face justice and an opportunity to clear her name in federal court.
Awakened
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 10:25 a.m.
He and his attorney are angling for a settlement. Let us hope that Pittsfield Township does not.
Basic Bob
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 6:16 p.m.
Pittsfield's police cars have really nice computers in them - a recent purchase. And they haven't been trained what to do when it displays an error, like calling tech support.
Roadman
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 5:36 p.m.
Fieger's firm has a long history of big verdicts. The claims adjuster will likely gladly issue a check for low six figures to get rid of Fieger and a federal court jury if a federal judge feels the case has enough evidence to warrant a trial.
trespass
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 11:01 a.m.
Pittsfield township will settle because it does not want to find out what Fieger's firm will uncover in discovery about their training and policies.
racerx
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 5:37 a.m.
Good for him! Despite the naysayers here, and frankly I'm really tired of reading these. The officer should had used better judgement. Why was she physically in the position that she was if, it is alledged that he was dangerous and that she received reports from another officer of his history, prior to him getting out of the car. If this was the case why didn't she wait, get behind the vechice. Why didn't the other two officers attempt to stop the vehicle, as Reddick drove right by them? There are still many unanswered questions, and filing a Federal suit should help. Pittsfield PD should really review their procedures in lieu of this. I don't care what Reddick "should" had done, pulling your weapon and shooting first without having edivence that he had a weapon, and she clearly says on the tape, "...I thought he had a gun or something..." Thought? Oh. Let me shoot you first, then we'll see if you have a gun. Fire her.
yourdad
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 7:55 p.m.
we are NOT talking about an officer death... loose fingers. Sorry
yourdad
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 7:55 p.m.
try this link... I for one am glad we are talking about an officer death. <a href="http://www.odmp.org/year.php" rel='nofollow'>http://www.odmp.org/year.php</a>
WLD1
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 6:51 p.m.
He should have used better Judgement, It only takes a split second of hesitation by an officer and she could be dead. She waits to see a gun and she could be dead. When an officer has a gun pointed at you, you do not make sudden moves like that. And if you do you deserve to get shot.
Roadman
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 5:34 p.m.
Good points Racerx. The initial officers did not see this as a life and death struggle; there was no roadblock or no direction by those officers to stop. Reddick slowly made his turn and pulled into a space. I cannot figure why Yurkunas drew a weapon and pointed it.
goblue041
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 4:32 p.m.
The other Officers probably did not attempt the stop because they did not want to risk a pursuit situation - endangering the public further. The Officer had a couple seconds to react to the unfolding situation - how long have you had to think about what you wrote above?
bornblu
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 1 p.m.
Why shoot first? 1. P.O. Brian Eric Huff, responding to gunshots, killed 5/3/10 2. P.O. James David Bonneau, responding to domestic disturbance, killed 3/9/10 3. Corp. Matthew Lloyd Edward, responding to burglary, killed 7/23/10 4. P.O. Larry Nehasil, burglary surveillance, killed 1/17/11 Michigan Law Enforcement officers who died in the line of duty since 2010 Racerx, protecting us all. I am in no way involved with law enforcement and due not know Officer Yurkunas, but am extremely thankful and greatful for her service and safety. Job well done.
pawky
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 4:58 a.m.
His actions caused the end result. Period. Doesn't deserve a cent.
Roadman
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 3:33 a.m.
The above video was covered in last week Tuesday's New York Daily News. Devin Reddick has won his 15 minutes of fame, as Warhol once said.
genetracy
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 3:14 a.m.
It looks like there are plenty of self proclaimed experts on this forum who could serve on Reddick's legal team.
Roadman
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 3:23 a.m.
Or serve on Tracy Yurkunas' legal team
genetracy
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 3:12 a.m.
For you people hoping hoping Reddick wins his lawsuit and becomes an instant millionaire....Where do you think the money will come from? The last time I checked, it will be paid by tax dollars. Like any municipality in Michigan can afford to pay a seven figure settlement to some criminal becuase his rights were supposedly violated.
Roadman
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 3:23 a.m.
Pittsfield Township can pay for it by laying off some of its police officers.
jcj
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 2:28 a.m.
The funny thing is, if this suspected criminal gets to court and wins some here will applaud the courts for upholding justice. If he goes to court and looses they will say the court or jury is prejudiced. It doesn't matter which side you fall on not many will just accept the verdict if it goes the other way.
Roadman
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 12:42 a.m.
I doubt a verdict will be received by the court because the township will be scared of a big verdict against them and likely shell out a hefty settlement to avoid the risk of a multi-million dollar judgment.
Heardoc
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 2:03 a.m.
Well I hope that this gentleman wins and wins big. The officer was out of line here and we need to fear her decision making process. I think she is a threat to all of our safety. The township is hoping that the can settle this thing as I believe -- an I am a risk manager-- that this will be very costly for the township. If i were ever to be in contact with this"officer" Yurkurnas, I would not roll my window down, I would call 911 and ask that a real officer come to the scene as I believe she has lost all credibility as an officer. How in the world the prosecutor declined to charge is quite scary. What if this was one of you? The cops make things up -- which appeared top occur in this case-- and then hide behind 'Officer Safety' -- well it is about citizen safety. If an officer is afraid or cowardly, then they should find another line of work. It is not acceptable to be shot bt an officer then have that office fail to portray the facts correctly. Thank goodness for the video.
goblue041
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 4:28 p.m.
A risk manager - so you push paper around and look at statistics? Accusing the police of "making things up" shows your prejudice, making an inference that the Officer is "afraid or cowardly" is just out of line. Hide behind your paper and let people who understand life and death situations handle them as best they can.
Ypsi Skunk
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 2:33 p.m.
I can't believe you call Reddick a "gentleman," what a slap in the face for domestic violence survivors.
HADES
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 6:53 a.m.
"Thank goodness for the video." I agree and the video shows that the officer did NOTHING wrong! Get over it! I hope the guys loses his case and ends up feeling more humiliated!
racerx
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 5:40 a.m.
Agree 100% Heardoc!
RJA
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 2:03 a.m.
OMG, keep your chin up Tracy! I doubt that is law suit is going anywhere. I never thought any of the comments came from personal friends, I don't know you, have never heard your first or last name. But, I am proud of the job you do.
Adam Betz
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 11:53 a.m.
I'd rather her receive proper training on how to control her emotions in a situation like this than keep her chin up. I don't feel bad for the officer...she is sitting behind a desk right now (thank christ) where someone who doesn't know how to handle stressful situations with a public belongs.
Roadman
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 3:04 a.m.
Keep your chin up, Devin! You are going to collecting loads of insurance monies. I don't know you, but I am proud you have retained legal counsel and will become a civil rights litigant, valiantly enforcing the constitutional rights our forefathers gave their lives for.
Heardoc
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 2:04 a.m.
She should be in jail. She will lose -- the video will be what gets her ..........
Edward R Murrow's Ghost
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 1:41 a.m.
Represented by Geoffrey Feiger, no doubt. Chief Ambulance Chaser. Good Night and Good Luck
Cash
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 2:53 p.m.
I think the man who was shot will win. Just watch.
Edward R Murrow's Ghost
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 12:47 p.m.
Hah!!!!!!
Lee Higgins
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 12:25 p.m.
The plaintiff's attorney is William J. McHenry from Fieger, Fieger, Kenney, Johnson & Giroux, P.C.
Edward R Murrow's Ghost
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 11:13 a.m.
Cash, I think you misunderstand. Yes, I'd pick the most effective attorney. But GF would never take this case. Not enough money in it. Nuisance value only. Yes, the video is a piece of evidence and, from my layman's position (which is all any of the "experts" in this discussion are), the man was reaching inside his coat and toward his waist for something. My understanding is that this is reasonable provocation for a police officer to discharge their firearm. Good Night and Good Luck
Cash
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 10:53 a.m.
Ed, when the trial lawyers speak to training etc...we have no idea what will come from it. This video is but a piece of the story. And I think we all have a right to ANY attorney we choose. I know in ANY case, I'd choose the most effective one, wouldn't you?
Edward R Murrow's Ghost
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 10:42 a.m.
No, actually, I'm fairly certain GF is not representing him. I was just having some fun. 1) If he were, it would be all over the news. GF never met a TV camera he didn't like 2) This is, as best, a nuisance suit. For all of his "power to the people" crappola, GF only takes cases that will win big bucks. This case will be settled out of court for nuisance value--$50,000 or so. Not enough money in it for GF. Good Night and Good Luck
racerx
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 5:41 a.m.
Murrow, do you know this to be a fact? Feiger is one of Michigan's most successful law firms. Must be a whole lot of ambulance's doing wrong.
Heardoc
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 2:05 a.m.
I don't care who represents this gentleman -- the officer should pay and will lose this case as will the township.
cibachrome
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 1:16 a.m.
Sorry, but the suit says he was unarmed so there was no weapon. Believe me I own guns and can relate to someone drawing on you, but I think she acted too quickly. There were two officers on the scene. Neither one can explain her reaction. For him to pull out a gun, point it, and fire would have taken a bit more time. She should have given him that option. She was already on point of aim and off safety and shielded to some extent. Its going to look like she acted prematurely. And, she gut shot him. That's not what she was supposedly trained to do. He should have fallen down like a bowling pin. Its reckless discharge if you ask me. The other officer felt no need to 'reply', so that seals the deal. Shootee will claim his pants were falling down.
Roadman
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 5:27 p.m.
I personally know Bill McHenry. He has a long record of seven-figure settlements in police misconduct cases. He also was smart to sue in federal court to avoid the "Old Boys Network" of judges in Washtenaw County Circuit Court.
Roadman
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 1:29 a.m.
Good points, Cibachrome. However a good defense attorney will point out on cross -examination he was wearing suspenders to prevent his pants from descending improperly.
David Briegel
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 12:57 a.m.
Pittsfield residents, this is gonna cost ya!
Cash
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 10:47 a.m.
David, I totally agree. The township will lose. We all have our opinions on the video and for those who know the officer personally, or know any officer personally, they will have their slant, understandably. But facts are facts....and when I watch the video and look at what the lawsuit is really saying.... I firmly believe, the township will pay.
racerx
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 5:43 a.m.
I'd rather pay money than be shot with the potential of losing my life.
eagleman
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 12:56 a.m.
Roadman, where is your concern over the 16,500 victims of homicide in Amerixa each year?Why don't you respond to every post on an article about a murder? That you laud Geoffrey "aider and abettor of murderers" Feiger says a lot about the sincerity of your concern for justice and the rights of others.
Heardoc
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 2:06 a.m.
your post makes no sense --
Roadman
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 12:37 a.m.
I suspect many of the posters here are friends of Yurkunas or fellow Pittsfield P.D. officers.
Roadman
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 3:24 p.m.
The federal governmemt went over to 9mm Birettas some years ago, but frankly I do not know what firearm each township supplies to its officers.
Matt Cooper
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 1:12 a.m.
Here's a clue for ya roadman: It wasn't a revolver. Hardly any cops use revolvers on the road any more. The weapon of choice is a 9mm. But...you knew that, didn't you? LOL
Roadman
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 9:20 p.m.
@B72: I agree that Reddick's moements were not smart, but he may have acted in a panic mode due to seeing a revolver pointed in his direction.
B72
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 3:44 p.m.
I am not a relative, nor do i have any allegiances toward Pittsfield P. D. I have been harassed by the dept. years ago. I hold no grudges, i respect any police officers job. That being said, I watched the tape, and while I in no way condone anybody getting shot, I believe that this mans actions, in any city, especially major cities, would have gotten him shot, if not killed. Its real simple...pull over, stay in your car, keep your hands where they can see them, dont resist, and you should be fine. Jumping out, spinning around and doing what he was doing with his hands could have cost him his life.
man utd
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 3:27 a.m.
yes Roadman, we disagree with your assumptions and speculations so we must be related to the officer or somehow affiliated with the department. That's as ignorant and me making a wild statement like, "you must be this guy's lawyer" because of the way you're vehemently supporting him. Btw, never heard of her before this incident.
Ricebrnr
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 12:45 a.m.
Brother you sure like to speculate and make assumptions...
Ricebrnr
Wed, Mar 30, 2011 : 11:56 p.m.
I wonder how you all will feel if the next time an officer hesitates to draw or pull the trigger due to this nonsense and it costs her life? Or worse for you, it costs you yours or a loved one's? Especially those of you who have no concept or ability to protect said lives in the first place.
Heardoc
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 2:10 a.m.
What if it saves a life because the officer did wait? What if a child lives and is not shot? What if your spouse lives and is not shot. Police are not to be thought of as ones who can do no harm -- they do harm every day as well as good. Just because you are a cop does not mean you have no responsibility for your actions. You must be a cop as you have no clue as to what you speak of.... All cop should be held to a higher standard -- not the lower one you wish to implement.
Roadman
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 12:24 a.m.
Reddick would not have been the first to die with a cell phone in his hand. Remember Clifton Lee, Jr. in West Willow where officers mistook his phone for a possible weapon; he was jumped and asphyxiated. Four million in cash to his estate. Geoff got his one-third.
tdw
Wed, Mar 30, 2011 : 11:32 p.m.
Boy, I never would have seen this one coming
Roadman
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 12:21 a.m.
Thank God, tdw, we have civil rights attorneys like Geoffrey Fieger who act as advocates of the constitutional rights of citizens in cases like this. Most important thing is accountability of our law enforcement agencies when deadly force is improperly employed.
nonameliketherestofuturds
Wed, Mar 30, 2011 : 11:31 p.m.
WOW .....everybody remember its OK to shoot First.....after all your not the one with the gun ....who broke the law here.
Roadman
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 12:35 a.m.
Right, just shoot every one who MIGHT be armed, JIm. Tracy Yurkunas will now be the one in the legal hot seat, having to explain her actions, which are highly questionable.
trespass
Wed, Mar 30, 2011 : 11:29 p.m.
I don't really care if he gets any money but I would like to see the police department learn from this mistake. I think they will defend the officer so vehemently (like many of the commenters) that they will send the wrong message to the other officers and to the training officers. This bad shoot will beget more bad shoots, unfortunately. Even if not everyone agrees with whether or not this is a bad shoot, it is good that AA.com is investigating local government and putting out the information (including video) so that we can debate it ourselves.
Roadman
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 12:15 a.m.
Agreed. This is a story of questionable police work. It deserves to be investigated. The vast majority of deadly force shootings by police are legally justified; this one raises serious questions.
nowayjose
Wed, Mar 30, 2011 : 11:20 p.m.
First off, it's Janie's got a gun. Second I'm a tax payer of Pittsfield and I stand by the officer and hope this guy doesn't get a penny of my money with his frivolous lawsuit. Just another way to try and cash in without being a productive member of society. I was also holding my tounge on this because I know I would have been blocked had I said what I really wanted to about this guy.
nowayjose
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 1:05 p.m.
@heardoc, Because I side with the offcer doesn't make me a officer, any more than you siding with this gentleman makes you a domestic violence suspect. So I guess you're the one "spouting off". I find your comments very ignorant about having to sell things off to pay for the mistakes of the Reddick, not the officer.
Heardoc
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 2:12 a.m.
I hope he wins so big that the township has to raise taxes and sell off items to pay the gentleman. I think you are just cop that is spouting off.
Roadman
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 1:22 a.m.
Jose, don't expect too much from Brian Mackie's office; they don't like going after officers. They passed on the Lee tragedy in West Willow and forced the feds to indict in U.S. District Court. They also passed on Andrew Shirvell, who prosecuted criminal appeals. The "independent investigation" is not over, but I am not going to hold my breath for Pittsfield P.D. Internal Affairs to nail Yurkunas for anything since the "there but for the grace of God goes I' mentality prevails. Most local municipalities belong to a self-insurance pool that adjusts such claims.
nowayjose
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 12:40 a.m.
If it was bad police work then it would have been revealed in the independent investigation and prosecutor review. Other than your non expert opinion what have to show that it's bad police work? And most governments are self insured so the money would come from the general fund. Must be nice to live in your fantasy world.
Roadman
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 12:30 a.m.
An insurance carrier will likely pay the bulk of any settlement he gets, Jose. Bad police work should be punished. Let a federal judge decide whether there is sufficient evidence that the township and Yurkunas broke the law. Then ,if so, send the case to the jury.
nonameliketherestofuturds
Wed, Mar 30, 2011 : 10:51 p.m.
Watch the tape she shot for no reason.......Jamie got gun,everybody on the run.
steve h
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 1:18 a.m.
quit ruining a good Aerosmith tune
Roadman
Wed, Mar 30, 2011 : 11:08 p.m.
I am sure Reddick would like you on his jury.
Macabre Sunset
Wed, Mar 30, 2011 : 10:48 p.m.
Watching that video, it's difficult to determine what happened. It looks like he's deciding whether to run, sees her gun and makes a sudden move to the side. But his hands are right where you'd worry there's a gun. I see why she thought he had one - cops are trained to react to that behavior, trained to watch the hands carefully rather than watch where he's going. The suit really comes down to whether it is reasonable to except a citizen to react in a calm, orderly manner when stopped by the police. Not sure why she would be criticized for moving behind the door of her car. It's reinforced, and that's just following training. Her position is proper. It's all about whether firing the gun was justified. I would give her the benefit of the doubt. From the attitudes of every cop on the scene, this was not an attempt to exact "street justice". He was not beaten or attacked. Maybe a harsh lesson for Reddick, but I don't think he has a strong case.
man utd
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 3:15 a.m.
she's paid to protect the public ... she's not paid to die for the public. don't be stupid by fleeing from cops or act like you're threatening them and you won't get shot.
steve h
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 1:17 a.m.
yep
Roadman
Wed, Mar 30, 2011 : 11:18 p.m.
Shoot first and ask questions later.
Matt Cooper
Wed, Mar 30, 2011 : 11:15 p.m.
And as I've said many times before, if the officer felt her life was in jeopardy she doesn't have to stop and make sure the suspect actually has a weapon. What part of that don't you understand?
Roadman
Wed, Mar 30, 2011 : 11:03 p.m.
She admitted she saw no weapon and no weapon was present. There was no reasonable belief he was armed and dangerous. His hand was jerking forward, not reaching for his waistband as some have suggested.
Ricebrnr
Wed, Mar 30, 2011 : 10:40 p.m.
Good luck with that. When you lose I hope the township goes after you for trial costs.
Ricebrnr
Wed, Mar 30, 2011 : 11:51 p.m.
nope the videos presented clearly exonerate her. I hope Pittsfield bankrupts the ambulance chaser and this suspect.
Roadman
Wed, Mar 30, 2011 : 11:07 p.m.
There will likely be no trial. The township will file motions to dismiss, which will be denied by the judge due to fact issues. They risk a major monetary damage award if they go to trial. Reddick will make some bucks off the township. So will his attorney.
Roadman
Wed, Mar 30, 2011 : 10:39 p.m.
This is great news! Who is the attorney for Reddick that filed the suit on his behalf? I believe that this lawsuit will likely be the forum where there will be significant factual development during the discovery process of what occurred e.g witness depositions, production of incident reports and departmental guidelines, training protocols etc. I have every reason to believe that this U.S. District Court civil action will put this case under the "microscope" it needs so that justice can be meted out.
nonameliketherestofuturds
Wed, Mar 30, 2011 : 10:38 p.m.
Cops have issues with power......watch the tape!
Matt Cooper
Fri, Apr 1, 2011 : 3:16 p.m.
If that's true why did he jump out of the car in a very hasty fashion? And do you really, honestly think he never saw the cop cars flashing lights? Are we really that silly?
Roadman
Wed, Mar 30, 2011 : 10:55 p.m.
Reddick was just driving slowly and parking his car in a space. There is no proof that he could perceive any order to stop or put his hands up prior to being shot. The fact a cell phone was in his hand is evidence he may have been talking on the phone and had not been paying attention to any command given by Yurkunas prior to his shooting.
Mr. Ed
Wed, Mar 30, 2011 : 10:30 p.m.
You can see the Officer move to the inside of the door when he jumps out. This will be a lawsuit that will cost money. I think the township should sue the bad guy for not following orders given at the time of his pursuit and arrest. The twp should sue because he put the community at risk when the Officer had to shoot him out of fear for her own life. Please don't pay this guy any money! He deserves nothing. He put himself in harms way by resisting. Police work by it's very nature is dangerous. The Officer went home and the bad guy went to the hospital. Now if the bad guy would have stayed in his car and put his hands up it would have been a different story. The bad guy would have been placed under arrest and taken to jail. The only injury then would have been his pride. Based on the domestic violence charge it appears he has issues with power.
man utd
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 3:11 a.m.
@ Roadman - she was doing her job protecting the community. Gimme a freaking break ... maybe her aim could been better.
Roadman
Wed, Mar 30, 2011 : 10:42 p.m.
Officer Tracy Yurkunas appears to have "issues". She should have never pointed her gun at Reddick. We will wait to see how the police department's internal investigation will wind up.
a2citizen
Wed, Mar 30, 2011 : 10:19 p.m.
Mr. Reddick, you're lucky the officer was not a very good shot.
Roadman
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 6:43 p.m.
And Officer Yurkunas is also lucky she's an officer or else she'd be in jail now on $500,000 bond and facing a felony charge if she was a civilian.
that's a tuffy
Wed, Mar 30, 2011 : 10:13 p.m.
If he put his hands up and stayed in the car, he would have never been hurt. I hope his lawsuit is thrown out.
Thomas
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 12:51 p.m.
@Craig - that was not known at the time. Cops have a split second to make a safety decision. She made hers. I agree with her decision whole-heartedly. This man should be lucky her shot wasn't fatal.
cinnabar7071
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 12:26 a.m.
His Bad!
Craig Lounsbury
Thu, Mar 31, 2011 : 12:10 a.m.
except the only person who could have died was the one who got shot....the unarmed guy.
cinnabar7071
Wed, Mar 30, 2011 : 11:29 p.m.
If Yurkunas had not drawn and pointed her gun she would have had an opportunity to die.
Roadman
Wed, Mar 30, 2011 : 10:47 p.m.
If Yurkunas had not drawn and pointed her gun she would have had an opportunity to see that Reddick was unarmed. Reddick is fortunate to be alive.