Iowa Supreme Court Confirms $4.25 Million Verdict Against Officer in Motorcyclist’s Death
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Manchester, Iowa – The Iowa Supreme Court has affirmed a jury’s decision holding a Manchester police officer liable for the death of a motorcyclist following a high-speed chase. The ruling, issued today, upholds a damage award of over $4.25 million to the estate of Augustin Mormann.
The Case: A Pursuit Gone Wrong
The legal battle stems from an incident where Manchester police Officer James Wessels twice collided with Mormann’s motorcycle during a pursuit, ultimately causing a fatal crash. The initial chase was initiated by the Iowa State Patrol, but troopers discontinued the pursuit due to escalating safety concerns.
Despite the State Patrol’s decision to cease the chase, Officer Wessels continued to pursue Mormann, a move that formed a central point of contention in the case. The jury found Wessels committed assault and battery against Mormann.
Supreme Court Ruling: intentional Action and policy Violation
Wessels and the city of Manchester appealed the jury’s verdict, raising arguments including qualified immunity and insufficient evidence. However, the Supreme Court decisively rejected these claims.
The court’s ruling explicitly stated that evidence demonstrated Wessels continued the pursuit independently, directly contravening department policy after the State Patrol had called it off. Crucially, the court found that Wessels’s cruiser intentionally struck Mormann’s motorcycle, and that this use of force was not justified.
Financial Impact and Legal Precedent
The $4.25 million award to Mormann’s estate represents damages for the loss suffered. This case sets a notable precedent regarding police conduct during pursuits and the obligation of officers to adhere to established safety protocols. It underscores the potential for civil liability when officers act outside the bounds of policy and employ excessive force.
This ruling reinforces the importance of de-escalation tactics and adherence to established pursuit policies by law enforcement agencies across Iowa and beyond.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
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