Henderson, Nevada — The City of Henderson has been ordered to pay $450,000 in damages after a Clark County jury found that a former police sergeant used excessive force, violating a man’s civil rights. The verdict was delivered on Wednesday, concluding a case that stemmed from an incident in 2018.
The lawsuit centered around a store employee who had attempted to assist police in apprehending suspects. According to court documents, the employee’s good intentions were met with an unwarranted and violent response from law enforcement.
The incident occurred when Henderson police were in pursuit of suspects linked to a robbery. The store employee, seeing an opportunity to help, intervened to assist the officers. Instead of receiving thanks, he was subjected to what the jury deemed as excessive force by then-Sergeant Johnathan Smith.
Witnesses at the trial described how Smith aggressively tackled the employee, hitting and restraining him despite the employee’s clear intention to aid the police. The defense argued that the sergeant’s actions were a misjudgment under the stress of the situation, but the jury was not convinced, ruling that the force used was beyond what was necessary or acceptable.
The jury’s decision underscores a significant violation of civil rights, as they concluded that the sergeant’s actions were not only negligent but also a breach of the employee’s constitutional protections. This verdict sends a strong message about the importance of appropriate conduct and the use of force by law enforcement officers.
The City of Henderson responded to the verdict by stating that they respect the jury’s decision and are committed to ensuring such incidents do not occur in the future. They highlighted ongoing efforts to improve police training and accountability within the department.
For the employee, this verdict brings a sense of justice, though the physical and emotional scars from the incident remain. His attorney emphasized that the case was about more than just compensation; it was about holding those in power accountable for their actions and protecting the rights of all citizens.
The $450,000 award is intended to cover the employee’s medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering resulting from the incident. This case adds to the ongoing national conversation about police conduct and the use of force, reinforcing the need for reforms and strict adherence to protocols designed to protect both law enforcement officers and the public they serve.
The Henderson Police Department has faced scrutiny in the past, but officials express hope that this verdict will be a catalyst for positive change. They reaffirm their commitment to serving the community with integrity and respect, ensuring that such instances of excessive force are eliminated from their practices.
