Judge approves 1.25 million settlement in police shooting

A $1. 25 million settlement has been approved in the wrongful death lawsuit of Kevin Peterson Jr. , who was shot and killed by Clark County deputies while fleeing in October 2020. U. S.

District Court Judge Barbara Rothstein ruled in favor of the settlement after a lengthy legal battle, highlighting that Peterson did not pose an immediate threat during the incident. The attorneys for Peterson's family, Mark Lindquist and Angus Lee, argued that he was not threatening while running away, whereas defense attorneys claimed he failed to obey orders to drop his gun. This case has attracted significant media attention, raising serious concerns about police practices and the use of deadly force. The Ninth Circuit Court affirmed Rothstein's ruling, stating that Peterson was not suspected of any violent crime. Lindquist and Lee view the settlement as a crucial step towards justice and accountability, hoping it will stimulate meaningful discussions on police training and conduct.

They have also requested a review of the investigation, citing flaws and conflicts of interest. This case, along with another pending trial against the county for a separate police shooting, highlights ongoing issues of police accountability in the region.