Aurora, Illinois — A federal jury has awarded over $1 million to a local man after determining that a police officer used excessive force during a traffic stop in 2020. The case highlights ongoing concerns about law enforcement practices and community relations.
George Gutierrez, 52, was pulled over on April 26, 2020, for allegedly failing to signal within 100 feet of a turn. Seeking accountability, he requested a supervisor to the scene. According to Gutierrez’s legal team, officers ignored his requests, forcibly removed him from his vehicle by breaking a window, and slammed his head into a van, even as he raised his hands in surrender.
The lengthy legal battle began nearly four years ago, with Gutierrez filing a lawsuit against the city of Aurora as well as officers Cory McCue and Matthew Thomas Meyers. Although the jury concluded that only McCue exhibited excessive force, Gutierrez was ultimately awarded $50,000 in compensatory damages and $1 million in punitive damages to address the misconduct.
During the trial, which started on April 21, the jury’s decision came just two days later. Gutierrez described the verdict as a long-overdue recognition of his ordeal, expressing gratitude for being heard. He emphasized that it is often challenging for individuals to get their voices acknowledged in such cases.
Amanda Yarusso, one of Gutierrez’s attorneys, noted that the jury’s decision is significant, especially considering that the defense was allowed to reference Gutierrez’s prior conviction. He had been convicted in connection with a gang-related shooting in 1994, though he was not the shooter. Jurors ultimately ruled in his favor despite this history.
At the time of the traffic stop, Gutierrez was also convicted in Kane County for tinted windows and obstructing a police officer. Yarusso explained that while the legality of the stop itself could not be contested in federal court, the verdict underscored a critical distinction: some legal actions by police can still be fundamentally wrong.
The incident has gained attention in the context of broader discussions about policing and community rights. Yarusso remarked that the case illustrates the problems with minor traffic infractions being used as justifications for stops, arguing that such practices can lead to excessive and unjustified use of force.
Officer McCue remains employed by the Aurora police department, which previously recognized him and Meyers as 2020 Officers of the Year for their actions during a separate incident. However, following the recent verdict, the department is currently seeking legal advice regarding potential appeals, asserting confidence that the ruling will be overturned.
Gutierrez, who continues to engage with his community, runs a business called Chicano Times and participates actively in local events and advocacy. He has been particularly vocal about police reform, hoping to foster dialogue about these issues within the city in light of the jury’s decision.
He expressed optimism that the ruling could lead to a public forum on police-community relations, emphasizing the significance of the award as a reflection of the seriousness of the issue at hand. “This isn’t a minor issue,” he stated, indicating his commitment to change.
The Aurora Police Department’s ongoing response to the verdict remains to be seen as they evaluate their options moving forward.
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