Saying it was a “tragic” incident, the city has agreed to shell out $2.75 million to settle a lawsuit by the family of a Rikers Island inmate whose December 2012 death was ruled a homicide.
The city’s Law Department on Monday confirmed the settlement with the family of Ronald Spear, 52. The inmate’s father had claimed in a Manhattan federal lawsuit last year that his son was assaulted after complaining that his medical care at the jail was terrible.
“This was a tragic case,” said Muriel Goode-Trufant, the Law Department’s chief of special federal litigation. “Based on our evaluation of all the relevant facts and circumstances, we believe that this settlement provides fair compensation to the family of Ron Spear.”
Attorneys for Spear had claimed he was kicked in the face and head by various correction officers. The city’s medical examiner ruled it a homicide, but Bronx prosecutors determined there wasn’t enough evidence to pursue criminal charges.
Spear, who was arrested for burglary in September 2012, had alleged he had trouble receiving treatment for kidney disease. His family alleges jail guards retaliated against Spear for contacting lawyers about his improper medical care.
The proposed settlement is expected to be filed later Monday in Manhattan federal court, where it is expected to be approved by a judge. The city will not admit liability as part of the settlement.
Lawyers for the family didn’t immediately respond to messages seeking comment.
Spear’s family has previously asked the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Manhattan to investigate the case.