Conclusion Meanings:
'Exonerated': or 'Within NYPD Guidelines' - The conduct occurred but did not violate the NYPD's own rules, which often give officers significant discretion.
'Substantiated': The misconduct occurred and it violated the rules. The NYPD has discretion over what, if any, discipline is imposed.
'Unsubstantiated': or 'Unable to Determine' - The alleged conduct was investigated but could not determine both that the conduct occurred and that it broke the rules.
Further details on conclusions.
Steele, Michelle vs City of New York, et al.
Case # 505016/2017,
Supreme Court - Kings, March 17, 2017, ended September 6, 2019
$10,000 Settlement
Complaint
Description: On February 17, 2016, Michelle Steele was driving near the intersection of Ocean Avenue and Avenue D in Brooklyn when she was stopped by NYPD officers, including John Doe officers. Without probable cause, Ms. Steele was detained, searched, and arrested. During the arrest, officers used excessive force, handcuffing her tightly and pushing her to the ground, causing physical injuries. Ms. Steele was transported to the 70th Precinct, where she was held for several hours before being released. The charges against her were eventually dismissed. Ms. Steele alleges that she was targeted due to her race and suffered emotional trauma, physical injuries, and public humiliation as a result of the incident.