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.
'Unfounded': Evidence suggests that the event or alleged conduct did not occur.
'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.
Named in 3 known lawsuits, $60,000 total settlements.
Mcqueen, Dewayne, et al. vs City of New York, et al.
Case # 20CV04879,
U.S. District Court - Eastern District NY, September 17, 2020
Complaint
Description: On April 19, 2019, New York State passed legislation providing that certain criminal suspects are permitted to receive a Desk Appearance Ticket ("DAT") instead of being detained before arraignment (the "Bail Reform legislation"). One such group of suspects includes those charged with driving under the influence of alcohol whose blood alcohol content was less than .08%. Still, members of this group are habitually detained pending arraignment in violation of the Bail Reform legislation.
On January 11, 2020, Plaintiff 1 was driving a motor vehicle when he was stopped by PO Ruotolo on suspicion of driving under the influence. Plaintiff 1 agreed to a breathalyzer test, resulting in a .07 ABV reading, less than the ...
Bailey, Kirk vs City of New York, et al.
Case # 13CV08795,
U.S. District Court - Southern District NY, January 7, 2014, ended October 31, 2014
$25,000 Settlement
Complaint
Description: On April 17, 2012, Plaintiff was sleeping in his car after performing at a cafe. Defendant Officers approached Plaintiff, awakened him, and confirmed his identification. Other officers, all white, including Defendant Officer Peter Ruotolo, arrived. Defendant Peter Ruotolo informed Plaintiff that he appeared to be intoxicated and told him to exit his car to take a breath test. Plaintiff willingly left his car but refused to take the test, claiming to be sober as demonstrated by his speech, lack of alcohol on his breath, and dexterity. Defendant Ruotolo then physically threw Plaintiff against the car, cuffed him, twisted his shoulders, and transported him to the 28th Precinct. At the precinct Plaintiff easi...
Vincente et al v. City of New York et al
Case # 06CV01135,
U.S. District Court - Southern District NY
$35,000 Settlement
Amended Complaint,
Complaint