title
RYAN SHEPPARD V. OFFICER ROBERT KENNEDY, IN HIS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY; EIGHTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT, CASE NO. 2016-CA-4348 (B)
recommendation
The City Commission authorize the City Attorney and/or special counsel if insurance coverage is available to represent the individual officer in the case styled Ryan Sheppard v. Officer Robert Kennedy, in his Individual capacity; Eighth Judicial Circuit, Case No. 2016-CA-4348.
explanation
On January 19, 2017, Officer Kennedy was served with a Summons and Complaint filed by Ryan Sheppard. Mr. Sheppard was arrested by Officer Kennedy in 2012 on charges of tampering with physical evidence and resisting arrest without violence. Mr. Sheppard alleges there was no probable cause for the arrest and search and that excessive force was used, resulting in a violation of his constitutional rights. He claims to have suffered damages, including physical injuries, pain and suffering, emotional distress and mental anguish. Mr. Sheppard is seeking compensatory and punitive damages as well as attorney's fees.