Atlanta, GAThe city of Atlanta has offered $4.9 million to settle a wrongful death lawsuit with the estate of a 92-year-old woman who was shot and killed by police during an illegal raid of her home.
In November 2006, police, acting on a tip from an informant, executed a "no-knock" warrant on Kathryn Johnston's home to conduct a drug raid, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Johnston grabbed a gun and fired one shot before she was killed by police officers. When the cops didn't find any drugs in the home, they planted some.
After an extensive investigation three police officers pleaded guilty to violating Johnston's civil rights and were sentenced to federal prison. A number of other officers were variously convicted of crimes, fired or disciplined in regards the illegal raid.
Nearly four years later Atlanta has offered a $4.9 million settlement to Johnston's estate representative, her niece, Sarah C. Dozier, to end a wrongful death lawsuit.
"Clearly a terrible wrong was committed in this tragic case. In the end, the city was forced to step up and right this wrong, as well as can be under our system of laws," said Dozier's attorney. "It is always gratifying to be on the side seeking and receiving justice."
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