Atlanta City Council Grants $3.8 Million Settlement to Family of Deceased Church Deacon

Overview of the Event

The Atlanta City Council agreed unanimously on Monday to pay a sizeable sum of $3.8 million. This payment was designated to settle a lawsuit by the family of a church deacon, Johnny Hollman, who died following a minor car crash which turned into a fatal police encounter. Officer Kiran Kimbrough was involved in the incident, with Hollman’s family claiming that his excessive force was the cause of the 62-year-old’s death.

Details of the Incident

After Hollman allegedly refused to sign a citation that held him accountable for the crash, a struggle ensued between the deacon and officer Kimbrough. Upon resistance, Kimbrough used his stun gun and physically asserted himself over Hollman. Attorney Mawuli Davis, representing Hollman’s family, criticized the officer’s actions as excessive and unnecessary.

Relatives reported that Hollman was returning from Bible study at his daughter’s house, intending to deliver dinner to his wife when he met with a vehicular accident while crossing a bustling street close to downtown.

Body Camera Recording

A bodycam video recording of Hollman’s arrest from Aug. 10 vividly showed Kimbrough discharging his stun gun on Hollman, who repeatedly cried out that he was unable to breathe. Hollman later became unresponsive and was declared dead at a local hospital. An autopsy stated that Hollman’s death was a homicide, with heart disease also noted as a contributing factor.

About the Settlement

The Atlanta City Council addressed the lawsuit with a unanimous decision to grant $3.8 million in settlement payments to Hollman’s family. The council remained silent on the matter during their regular Monday meeting.

Family Reaction to the Settlement

Lawyer Mawuli Davis, who represented Hollman’s family, acknowledged the settlement as a step towards their healing journey. He expressed that the substantial amount would aid them in focusing on finding peace from the tragic and unnecessary loss of their beloved father. Arnitra Hollman, the deceased deacon’s daughter, extended her heartfelt gratitude towards Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, the city council, and all the citizens of Atlanta who supported them in their quest for justice for their father.

The Aftermath

While the settlement is an outcome for the family, it in no way mitigates the emotional turmoil they experienced. This incident has prompted questions about the use and regulation of force by police officers, intensifying calls for police reform in Atlanta and beyond. The terms of the settlement will not only provide closure and financial support for the bereaved family, but it also serves as a glaring reminder of the pressing need for a thorough and effective review of law enforcement tactics.