NEW HAVEN, Conn. –– Renowned civil rights and personal injury attorney Ben Crump has issued a statement on behalf of the legal team for Richard (Randy) Cox in response to the New Haven Police Commission’s decision to terminate two officers involved in the arrest that resulted in Randy Cox’s paralysis. City police commissioners voted to dismiss Jocelyn Lavandier and Luis Rivera for violating officer conduct rules on following the law, integrity, trustworthiness, courtesy, and respect. The Commission’s action follows an internal investigation that recommended the firing of the four officers involved in the arrest.
Officers Oscar Diaz, Ronald Pressley, Jocelyn Lavandier, Luis Rivera, and Sergeant Betsy Segui have been charged with misdemeanor second-degree reckless endangerment and cruelty to persons. Cox is now paralyzed from the chest down due to severe injuries sustained in the back of the police van during transport on June 19, 2022.
Attorney Crump issued the following statement:
“We appreciate the New Haven Police Commission’s decision to hold these officers accountable for their actions – behavior that caused Randy’s devastating and overwhelming injuries. Even though Randy’s family wishes the Commission’s decision had happened sooner, they are thankful it has finally happened.
“It is our hope that both the city and the Police Department recognize the significant role their actions and inaction played in creating Randy’s permanent condition. While this decision is a step in the right direction, it is important to stress that full justice, in this case, will be achieved only when there are criminal convictions, civil accountability, and changes in the law. These officers were entrusted with a solemn duty to protect the community, yet they caused extensive and shattering trauma to Randy, who will endure the consequences for the rest of his life.
“Our team remains committed to seeking justice for Randy Cox and advocating for the necessary support and resources he requires to overcome the challenges he now faces. We will continue to work diligently to ensure that those responsible are held accountable and that systemic reforms are implemented to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.”
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ABOUT BEN CRUMP LAW
Through his work, nationally renowned civil rights and personal injury attorney Ben Crump has spearheaded a legal movement to better protect the rights of marginalized citizens. He has led landscape-changing civil rights cases and represented clients in a wide range of areas, including civil rights, personal injury, labor and employment, class actions, and more. Ben Crump Law is dedicated to holding the powerful accountable. For more information, visit bencrump.com.
