> New York City to Pay $7 Million to Sean Bell's Family and Associates

New York City to Pay $7 Million to Sean Bell's Family and Associates

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 12:48:23

New York City has agreed to pay over $7 million to the family and associates of Sean Bell after he was fatally shot in 2006 by 50 bullets. 50 bullets is, pardon the pun, overkill, isn’t it? The New York Times reported that the decision by the city came after two days of intense negotiations in Federal District Court in Brooklyn. Bell's estate would receive $3.25 million, and two friends who were injured in the episode would also receive payments: Joseph Guzman would get $3 million, and Trent Benefield $900,000. The case caused debates over the use of deadly force by the police and prompted the city to change some of its policing procedures.

"The Sean Bell shooting highlighted the complexities our dedicated officers must face each day. The City regrets the loss of life in this tragic case, and we share our deepest condolences with the Bell family," Corporation Counsel Michael A. Cardozo said in a statement after the deal was announced.

Is this a fair coda to a sad story?

—Amy Sciarretto
07.29.10

"Like" ARTISTdirect on facebook to get more news and info on Sean Bell

Tags: Sean Bell