In La Mesa, California, justice has been served as the city has agreed to settle a federal lawsuit filed by Amaurie Johnson for $125,000.
The lawsuit stemmed from an incident in May 2020 where Johnson, a 23-year-old Black man, was unjustly arrested and subjected to excessive force by former police officer Matthew Dages.
The settlement comes after Johnson accused Officer Dages of wrongful arrest and excessive force, supported by video evidence capturing the altercation.
Despite the incident being dismissed by the La Mesa Police Department without charges, Johnson pursued legal action, leading to the settlement.
Officer Dages, who detained Johnson without valid suspicion and falsified reports of the incident, was subsequently fired from the police force.
Although he contested his termination in civil court, the judge upheld the decision, affirming the misconduct.
While the settlement brings closure to the legal battle, it highlights the importance of holding law enforcement accountable for their actions.
The resolution not only provides compensation to Johnson but also serves as a reminder of the ongoing fight against racial profiling and police violence.
