A Florida jury has awarded $2.3 million to the parents of a 21-year-old man who was shot and killed during an altercation with Marion County deputies. The members of the jury determined that Joshua Salvato was the victim of wrongful death, excessive use of force and civil rights violations.
On July 6, 2012, Deputy Lauren Miley responded to a report of an alleged disturbance on a local highway. She found Joshua Salvato walking near the road, and reportedly established that he was not carrying a weapon. She and Deputy Norman Brown attempted to handcuff Salvato. When he resisted, Miley shot and killed him. Brown then tased him 12 times.
Miley and Brown were investigated by a grand jury but were never indicted. Salvato family attorneys claim that the two deputies and the sheriff's department were not truthful during the criminal investigation. They say the civil trial helped uncover crucial evidence and ensured that justice was ultimately served.
"Through this verdict, our community stood up and spoke on behalf of my son Josh," plaintiff Vincent Salvato said in a written statement. "They sent a message that the Sheriff is not above the law and his position does not grant him immunity for wrongdoing nor does it protect him from being held accountable."
The civil trial lasted a little more than a week.
If you believe your family member was the victim of wrongful death in Missouri, you may have the right to seek damages on your loved one's behalf. You should contact experienced personal injury lawyers as soon as possible. The Kansas City attorneys at Meyers Law Firm can assess your claim and help you recover any civil damages to which you may be entitled.