ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — A jury has awarded a hefty sum in a search warrant case involving a SWAT team in Albuquerque. The incident, which unfolded last year, resulted in a man being seriously injured during the execution of the warrant.
The individual, whose name has been withheld from the public, claims that the SWAT team used excessive force when searching his property. The incident prompted a lawsuit and ultimately led to the recent jury decision.
The jury awarded the plaintiff a total of $5.76 million in damages. This includes $2.5 million in punitive damages against the SWAT team members individually. It is believed to be one of the largest verdicts in New Mexico’s history involving excessive force claims.
The case centered around a search warrant that was obtained by the authorities in an attempt to locate stolen electronics and drugs. During the execution of the warrant, the SWAT team used diversionary devices, such as flashbang grenades, which caused severe injuries to the plaintiff.
The plaintiff argued that the SWAT team’s use of these devices was excessive and unnecessary, considering the information available to them at the time. The defense, on the other hand, maintained that the use of force was justified given the potential dangers associated with the search.
This case has sparked a debate about the appropriate use of force by law enforcement, especially in high-risk situations like SWAT team operations. Proponents of police reform argue that incidents like this only highlight the need for stricter regulations and improved training.
In response to the verdict, the defendant’s attorney stated that they were disappointed with the jury’s decision and plan to appeal the ruling. Meanwhile, the plaintiff’s legal team expressed satisfaction with the outcome, believing it sends a strong message about accountability for excessive force.
The jury’s decision adds another layer to the ongoing national conversation surrounding police use of force and raises questions about the effectiveness of current training and the need for additional oversight mechanisms. As discussions continue, it remains to be seen how this verdict will impact future cases involving excessive force and law enforcement accountability.