12-01-2020 Garrett vs. City of Federal WayCity Council Meeting
December 1, 2020
Background
Plaintiff sustained injuries when a police dog (K-9) bit his
leg during an arrest made in response to a 9-11 call alleging
that armed men were trying to break into an apartment.
Plaintiff alleges officers used excessive force by using the K-
9 instead of less lethal force. Department review of the
arrest concluded that the use of force was lawful and within
department policy.
Plaintiff’s alleged facts are significantly different that those
documented by police and third parties. Nevertheless,
summary judgment is unlikely given the factual dispute.
This means that the case would have to be tried if not
settled.
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The parties attended mediation.
The parties agreed upon a settlement of $45,000
pending council approval.
The City admits no wrongdoing in this matter and
believes that plaintiff’s claims would not be proven at
trial. $45,000 to settle the matter is significantly less
than the cost of trying the matter.
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Mayor’s Recommendation
Approve the settlement in the matter of Garrett vs. City of
Federal Way.
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Questions?
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