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.
'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.
Fowler, Joel vs City of New York, et al.
Case # 16CV06059,
U.S. District Court - Eastern District NY, November 7, 2016, ended October 25, 2017
$2,500,000 Settlement
Complaint
Description: Following a shooting in 2007, Defendant officers were assigned to investigate and based upon rumors, identified Plaintiff as a possible suspect, despite knowing evidence to the contrary. Plaintiff was arrested in 2009, brought to the 70th Precinct Detective Squad, and interrogated and coerced into making a statement by Defendant Officers. Plaintiff was then charged and convicted of murder. Plaintiff conviction was overturned on appeal after 8 years in prison.