Fort Lauderdale Settles Lawsuit with LaToya Ratlieff

LaToya Ratlieff has reached a $1.975 million settlement with the City of Fort Lauderdale after being injured by a rubber bullet fired by police during a peaceful protest in May 2020. The incident, which occurred amidst nationwide demonstrations over George Floyd's murder, left Ratlieff with significant physical and emotional injuries, including a fractured eye socket and permanent vision loss. After years of legal battles, including a federal civil rights lawsuit, Ratlieff expressed relief at the settlement, stating it allows her to move forward while emphasizing the need for police reform. The City Commission unanimously approved the settlement, and Mayor Dean Trantalis acknowledged the city's responsibility to implement changes in police practices. Despite the settlement, the city does not admit wrongdoing, and individual officers involved were granted qualified immunity. Ratlieff's case highlights ongoing issues of excessive force and civil rights violations during protests.