Conclusion Meanings:
'Exonerated': or 'Within NYPD Guidelines' - the alleged conduct occurred but did not violate the NYPD's own rules, which often give officers significant discretion.
'Substantiated': The alleged conduct occurred and it violated the rules. The NYPD has discretion over what, if any, discipline is imposed.
'Unfounded': Evidence suggests that the event or alleged conduct did not occur.
'Unsubstantiated': or 'Unable to Determine' - CCRB has fully investigated but could not affirmatively conclude both that the conduct occurred and that it broke the rules.
Further details on conclusion definitions.
Robinson, Shane, et al. vs City of New York, et al.
Case # 17CV01029,
U.S. District Court - Eastern District NY, March 13, 2017, ended June 1, 2018
$37,500 Settlement
Complaint
Description: Plaintiffs were waiting in a motor vehicle for one of the plaintiff's father, so he could drive him to work. Three officers approached the vehicle and ordered the plaintiffs to exit the car. All three plaintiffs were searched, handcuffed, and arrested. No contraband was found in the vehicle nor on the person of any of the plaintiffs. All three plaintiffs were charged with crim possession of marijuana in the 1st deg. On September 29, 2016, Officer Hughes signed a criminal complaint that falsely alleged that he smelled marijuana coming from the vehicle and that he was handed a partially burned marijuana cigarette by one of the defendants. Charges were dismissed.