Explanation
Background: This ordinance is submitted to settle the claims of Derris Lewis and his mother, April Lewis, for the total amount of Nine Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($950,000.00).
On January 18, 2008, Dennis Lewis was attacked and murdered in his home. On February 13, 2008, the twin brother of Dennis Lewis, Derris Lewis, was accused of having participated in the murder of his brother. Mr. Lewis remained in the Franklin County Jail from February 13, 2008, until August 6, 2009, when he was released after it was determined that a palm print found at the scene was not in blood and, therefore, could have been made before the murder.
Fiscal Impact: Funds were not specifically budgeted for this settlement, however, sufficient monies are available within Finance's Citywide Account for this purpose.
Title
To authorize and direct the City Attorney to pay the settlement to Derris Lewis, his mother April Lewis, and his attorney, SCOTT & NEMANN CO,. LPA; to authorize the expenditure of $950,000.00 from the General Fund; and to declare an emergency. ($950,000.00)
Body
WHEREAS: On January 18, 2008, Dennis Lewis was murdered at his residence; and,
WHEREAS: There appeared to be a palm print in blood at the scene of the crime that matched the prints of his twin brother, Derris Lewis; and,
WHEREAS: Derris Lewis was taken into custody and arrested and charged with murder on February 13, 2008; and,
WHEREAS: Derris Lewis remained in custody until August 6, 2009, at which time he was released from the Franklin County Jail; and,
WHEREAS: Derris Lewis has presented a claim against the City of Columbus alleging malicious prosecution, unreasonable search and seizure, false arrest, and false imprisonment; and,
WHEREAS: Derris Lewis claims post-traumatic stress syndrome as a result of the wrongful incarceration and prosecution, damage to his reputation, and other damage; and,
WHEREAS: All the charges against Mr. Lewis were u...
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