While nothing can truly make up for the loss of a loved one, a family that is coping with tragedy can still seek justice if they find that other parties were negligent in protecting the life of their relative. Such a case recently took place in Plainville, Connecticut, where a jury has awarded the family of Tiana Notice $10 million after it was determined that two police officers had acted negligently in failing to protect her from her ex-boyfriend. Notice was stabbed to death by James Carter in 2009.
The Hartford Courant reports that Notice had a restraining order taken out against Carter, who then violated the order by emailing her. After Notice notified police, one officer contacted Carter, letting him know that she had contacted law enforcement. Carter then murdered Notice in front of her apartment.
Carter is currently serving a 60-year sentence for murder.
"We are pleased with the verdict," Thomas J. Murphy, an attorney for Notice's family, told reporters. "We believe it shows that the jury carefully considered the facts and applied the law to reach an appropriate verdict that vindicates the decision to bring this lawsuit in the first place."
The Plainsville police department is planning to appeal the ruling. If the ruling stands, the money will go toward the estate of Tiana Notice, which is managed by her father Alvin.
If you have lost a loved one and believe that another individual or party may be partially responsible you should contact an accident attorney immediately to explore your legal options. The Kansas City attorneys at Meyers Law Firm may be able to help. Contact us today for a consultation!