Overview
- The panel rejected Ariel Roman’s civil-rights claims and returned a defense verdict for Officer Melvina Bogard and her partner, awarding no damages.
- Jurors also cleared a failure-to-intervene claim against Officer Bernard Butler, and the city said it was pleased with the outcome.
- Video shown in court depicted a prolonged struggle at the Grand Red Line station after officers confronted Roman for moving between train cars, with Tasers and pepper spray used before shots were fired.
- Bogard testified she feared being pushed onto the tracks and suspected Roman might have a weapon, saying the first shot was intentional and the second on the escalator was accidental.
- Roman had sought $5.3 million, argued deadly force was unjustified, and his attorney called the verdict disappointing while saying they will explore options that could include an appeal.