Philando Castile is dead. The police officer who killed him is free. Castile’s family may get $3 million for their loss.
Last year, we all saw Castile get shot and killed by police officer Jeronimo Yanez on Facebook Live as he sat in his car with his girlfriend and her 4-year old daughter. Then we were reminded of how brutal the shooting was when dashcam footage was released. But, not even video evidence was enough to convict Yanez of manslaughter even though he obviously killed a person.
It appears that the city of St. Anthony, Minn. where Castile was shot thinks that his life was not worth justice. Not only did a jury find Yanez not guilty, now the city is paying Castile’s family $3 million in a settlement throughLeague of Minnesota Cities Insurance Trust according to the Associated Press. So yes, to them Castile’s entire 32-year life was worth $3 million. That’s $93,750 for ever year he lived.
“No amount of money could ever replace Philando,” a joint statement from the attorneys and city of St. Anthony said. “With resolution of the claims the family will continue to deal with their loss through the important work of the Philando Castile Relief Foundation.”
The settlement was reached just weeks after the not guilty verdict. The settlement was done in favor of a federal wrongful death suit that could have taken years to resolve. The settlement still has to be approved by a state court.
Castile’s girlfriend, Diamond Reynolds, who filmed the incident will not be included in the settlement.
AP reports:
Darin Richardson, claims manager with the League of Minnesota Cities, said St. Anthony’s insurance coverage is $3 million per occurrence. If Reynolds were to file and win a claim, the city’s remaining $5,000 in coverage would be paid to her, and St. Anthony would have to cover any additional money awarded.
Photo: Instagram
