Settlement Reached in Ashli Babbitt's Wrongful Death Lawsuit for $5 Million
The Trump administration's settlement with Ashli Babbitt's family concludes a $30 million lawsuit stemming from her shooting during the Capitol riot.
Overview
The Trump administration has agreed to pay nearly $5 million to settle a wrongful death lawsuit from Ashli Babbitt's family. Babbitt was shot by Capitol Police during the January 6, 2021 Capitol riot as she attempted to breach the Speaker's Lobby. Although the officer involved was cleared of wrongdoing in a Justice Department investigation, Babbitt's estate alleged he failed to de-escalate the situation. Questions about the implications of this settlement for law enforcement practices have arisen, as several police officials, including Capitol Police Chief Tom Manger, expressed disappointment over the agreement.
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Analysis
- The Trump administration has agreed to pay nearly $5 million to the family of Ashli Babbitt, who was shot during the January 6 Capitol riot, resolving a wrongful death lawsuit brought against the U.S. Capitol Police.
- While the Justice Department previously found no wrongdoing by the officer who shot Babbitt, the settlement represents a significant amount compared to the family's original $30 million claim.
- Capitol Police Chief Thomas Manger expressed disappointment in the settlement, emphasizing that it sends a negative message to law enforcement about accountability during events where police are required to protect civilians.
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The Trump administration settled the lawsuit for $5 million to avoid further legal action and potential costs associated with a trial. Despite the officer being cleared, the settlement was reached to resolve the wrongful death claim brought by Babbitt's estate and Judicial Watch.
Babbitt's estate argued that the officer was negligent in his use of force, claiming he failed to de-escalate the situation and was not in uniform when he fired. The suit also alleged that Babbitt posed no threat and was unarmed.
Some law enforcement officials, including outgoing U.S. Capitol Police Chief Tom Manger, expressed disappointment over the settlement decision, disagreeing with the Justice Department's choice to settle the lawsuit.
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