George Floyd protester injured by Florida police gets $2 million in lawsuit settlement

LaToya Ratlieff, a 38-year-old protester, has reached a $2 million settlement with the city of Fort Lauderdale after sustaining serious injuries from a rubber bullet fired by police during a Black Lives Matter protest in 2020. On May 31, 2020, Ratlieff was struck in the face while she was choking on tear gas, resulting in a broken right eye socket, nerve damage, and a significant forehead injury that required 20 stitches. Her lawsuit accused the Fort Lauderdale police of violating her civil rights, drawing attention to the broader issue of police violence against protesters. In a statement, Ratlieff emphasized the importance of the settlement, stating it reflects a commitment to preventing similar injustices in the future. The city acknowledged that settling was the best financial choice to avoid the risk of incurring additional costs from a trial.

Ratlieff's experience captures the ongoing dialogue around police accountability and civil rights, particularly in the wake of George Floyd's murder. This case not only represents a personal victory for Ratlieff but also serves as a significant moment in the fight for justice and reform in policing practices. The settlement reinforces the message that authorities must respect the rights of individuals exercising their freedom to protest.