Excessive Force

Concord, NH: (Oct-16-07) Michael Paulhus, a Pelham man, brought a lawsuit against the city of Nashua, alleging that a traffic stop in 2004 caused him several injuries including the loss of his index finger, a broken nose and 10 months in jail. Police records stated that Paulhus tried to run police officers down with his mini van after they pulled him over. One officer fired four shots at the van, wounding Paulhus's upper arm and hand. His index finger was later amputated because of the wounds. Paulhus was charged with reckless conduct, leaving the scene of an accident, resisting arrest, disobeying police, and driving after suspension. He spent 10 months in jail after his arrest and later negotiated a plea bargain with a time served sentence.

Following the incident, Paulhus sued the city in 2006, alleging that police violated his civil rights, as well as used excessive force in the shooting and during his arrest. He accused the police of breaking his nose during the arrest. As part of a settlement reached, the city agreed to pay Paulhus $80,000 to resolve the suit. [BOSTON GLOBE: EXCESSIVE FORCE]

 

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Published on Oct-17-07