title
KRISTOPHER LEE MADSON V. THE CITY OF GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA, A MUNICIPAL CORPORATION, AND OFFICER JEFFREY KERKAU, IN HIS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY; COURT CASE NO. 1:15-CV-00063 (B)
recommendation
The City Commission authorize the City Attorney and/or special counsel if insurance coverage is available to represent the City of Gainesville and the individual officer in the case styled Kristopher Lee Madson v. The City of Gainesville, Florida, a municipal corporation, and Officer Jeffrey Kerkau, in his individual capacity; Court Case No. 1:15-CV-00063.
explanation
On April 14, 2015, the City was served with a Summons and Complaint filed by Kristopher Lee Madson. In 2012, Mr. Madson was the driver in a vehicle that rammed through a parking structure draw arm, breaking it. GPD officers followed Mr. Madson, with emergency lights activated, and attempted to conduct a traffic stop. Mr. Madson failed to stop his vehicle and a chase ensued wherein Mr. Madson exceeded 75 mph. Mr. Madson subsequently crashed his vehicle and fled the scene. A canine officer and canine tracked Mr. Madson to where he was hiding. During the course of the arrest Mr. Madson was bit by the police canine. Mr. Madson alleges that he is a victim of excessive force. He claims to have suffered bodily harm, including permanent injuries to his body as well as psychological damages, pain and suffering, and medical expenses. Mr. Madson is seeking compensatory damages, and attorney's fees and costs.