Family of Manny Ellis reaches 6 million settlement with the city of Tacoma

Tacoma will pay $6 million to settle a wrongful death lawsuit filed by the family of Manuel “Manny” Ellis, who died in police custody on March 3, 2020. Ellis, a 33-year-old Black man, endured excessive force, including being beaten, tased, and restrained, while pleading for breath. This settlement adds to a previous $4 million agreement with Pierce County, totaling $10 million in financial recovery for Ellis' family. Attorney James Bible stated that the settlement recognizes the need for reform in police interactions with communities of color. Ellis' family described him as a talented musician and beloved individual whose life was tragically cut short.

The case has sparked ongoing calls for justice and reform in Washington State and beyond. Despite public outcry, the three Tacoma police officers involved were acquitted of all criminal charges. This situation reflects larger systemic issues in policing and the treatment of marginalized communities.