A federal jury has awarded $17 million to the family of Luis Garcia, a homeless man shot and killed by police in Tustin, California. The verdict found that Officer Estella Silva used excessive force when she shot Garcia in August 2021.
Key Takeaways
A federal jury awarded $17 million to the daughters of Luis Garcia, a homeless man shot and killed by Tustin police in 2021. The verdict found the officer's use of force excessive and unreasonable.
- Federal jury awards $17M to family of Luis Garcia
- Officer Estella Silva shot Garcia after he was tased while holding a stick and recyclables
- City of Tustin defends officers' actions, citing California DOJ findings
- Garcia's daughters express hope the verdict prevents similar incidents
According to body camera footage, Garcia was hiding in bushes while collecting recyclables when officers arrived at the scene. As he emerged with a stick and plastic bags of cans, Officer Joshua Yuhas tased him. When Garcia tried to exit again, Silva shot him twice after claiming he jabbed her with the stick.
The California Department of Justice found insufficient evidence for criminal charges against Silva, stating that officers acted in self-defense. However, the jury determined that Silva's actions were unreasonable and awarded $5 million each for loss of life and pain and suffering, plus $7 million for wrongful death.
Garcia's daughters expressed relief at the verdict. 'I hope this never happens to anybody else,' said Camila Garcia. The City of Tustin plans to explore its legal options following the ruling.
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