Sebring, FL — A Highlands County jury awarded a staggering $195.3 million on Wednesday to the family of the late William Gentry Jr., a sheriff’s deputy who was fatally shot in 2018. The hefty sum consists of $12.3 million in compensatory damages with an additional $183 million designated as punitive damages.
The tragic incident occurred when Joseph Ables, a resident of Placid Lakes, fatally shot Deputy Gentry. The confrontation took place on Ables’ front porch while Gentry was responding to a complaint about a neighbor’s cat that Ables had allegedly shot. Reports indicate that Gentry was shot four times in the head and had not drawn his weapon at the time.
Following a lengthy legal process, Ables, who represented himself, was convicted earlier this year of first-degree murder of a law enforcement officer and subsequently sentenced to death on April 4.
The civil lawsuit against Ables sought damages for the profound loss and suffering endured by Gentry’s family. Throughout the trial, the family shared heart-wrenching testimonials about the profound impact of Gentry’s death. Susan Gentry, the deputy’s mother, recounted their shattered lives, highlighting how the incident not only claimed her son’s life but irrevocably damaged her marriage and familial relationships.
William Gentry Sr., the deputy’s father, has been profoundly affected by his son’s death. Susan Gentry revealed that her husband had never fully returned to their home after deciding to care for their son’s dogs shortly after the shooting, effectively ending their shared daily life.
Further intensifying the emotional testimony, Susan Gentry also shared about the legacy her son left behind as an organ donor. Despite the tragedy, parts of Deputy Gentry helped others, including a girl who received his bone marrow and now sends Susan Gentry pictures as she grows up.
In the courtroom, the confrontation between attorney Andres Oliveros and Ables over financial disclosures was tense. Despite refusing to disclose details about his finances, documents presented during the trial indicated that Ables might have substantial financial resources, including an account with at least $92,000 and potential benefits from his military service.
As the community and the Gentry family continue to grapple with the aftermath of this tragedy, this substantial award marks a significant, albeit sorrowful, acknowledgment of the immense loss suffered. The legal process has thus sent a strong message against senseless violence toward law enforcement and public servants.
The details of this case were based on courtroom reports and family testimonies, and all facts, figures, and individuals should be verified for accuracy. Anyone seeking corrections or retractions may contact [email protected].