Honolulu City Council postpones decision on $1.5 million settlement in wrongful death lawsuit

HONOLULU (KHON2) — The Honolulu City Council postponed a decision on a $1.5 million settlement related to the wrongful death lawsuit filed after the police shooting of Lindani Myeni in 2021.

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The proposed settlement aims to resolve claims brought by Myeni’s widow, who contends the shooting was unjustified.

The council meeting at Kapolei Hale has seen significant opposition, with a strong presence of Honolulu Police Department (HPD) officers urging council members to reject the settlement.

Among those in attendance were the police chief, Prosecuting Attorney Steve Alm, and Lindsay Myeni.

The lawsuit, initiated by Lindsay Myeni, argues that the officers acted recklessly and without justification, as her husband was unarmed when he was shot while police responded to a burglary call.

The incident garnered widespread attention and sparked discussions on race and police use of force.

Lindsay Myeni’s attorney, Jim Bickerton, spoke prior to the council discussion, emphasizing that a settlement would benefit both his client and the officers involved, who could face costly individual lawsuits without one.

“Compromise is good for everyone because it allows healing, peace, and the opportunity to move forward,” he stated, criticizing those opposing the settlement for not fully understanding the case’s facts.

In contrast, the police chief and prosecuting attorney argue that the officers acted in self-defense, maintaining that no wrongdoing occurred.

Council members remain divided on the settlement, with some viewing it as a necessary measure to avoid an expensive legal battle, while others believe it could imply an admission of guilt.

In an earlier committee vote, the council approved the measure 8-1, with five members in favor and three voting with reservations.

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The final decision on the settlement remains uncertain.

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