New Jersey State Police Excessive Force Settlement –$150K Payout Revealed

 

In a significant legal development, the State of New Jersey has agreed to pay $150,000 to settle a civil rights lawsuit involving alleged excessive force by the New Jersey State Police during a 2021 traffic stop in Deptford Township. The NJ State Police excessive force settlement brings renewed attention to the controversial use of pain compliance tactics during routine traffic enforcement.

Background: The Traffic Stop That Sparked the Lawsuit

On March 8, 2021, Troopers Matthew DeCello and Stephen Drew conducted a stop of Tousiant F. Spratley on Route 42 northbound in Deptford Township. Spratley, who was driving under the influence, allegedly exited his vehicle without being prompted and refused verbal commands. According to the lawsuit, the troopers deployed pain compliance techniques, including punches and a takedown, to force Spratley into handcuffs.

The federal complaint filed by Spratley alleged that the level of force used was disproportionate and constituted excessive force under the Fourth Amendment. The NJ State Police excessive force settlement was reached without an admission of liability or wrongdoing by the officers or the State.

Legal Allegations and Claims

Spratley’s lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey, claimed:

• Violation of his civil rights under 42 U.S.C. §1983
• Use of excessive force during arrest
• Failure to intervene by the troopers
• Pain and suffering resulting from physical injuries and emotional distress

Despite facing DUI charges, Spratley’s legal team maintained that the force used was unnecessary and punitive, especially after he had been subdued.

$150K Settlement and Its Implications

The $150,000 payout in the NJ State Police excessive force settlement was processed through the state’s Office of the Attorney General. As part of the agreement, the state avoided trial and potential further legal exposure.

Why this matters:

• The settlement avoids a public jury trial that could have revealed internal use-of-force policies.
• It adds to a growing list of payouts by the state in response to similar allegations.
• It underscores the importance of body-worn cameras and other accountability measures.

What Is Pain Compliance?

Pain compliance refers to law enforcement tactics designed to elicit compliance by inducing pain, without causing permanent injury. Common methods include pressure point manipulation, arm twists, and controlled strikes.

Critics argue that these tactics, when applied excessively or without justification, can cross the line into unconstitutional use of force. The NJ State Police excessive force settlement reignites this debate.

Patterns of Settlements in NJ

TransparencyNJ has reported on dozens of settlements involving New Jersey law enforcement agencies. This latest case follows a pattern:

• Settlements often range from $100K to over $1 million.
• Most are resolved before trial.
• Allegations typically include excessive force, false arrest, and civil rights violations.

What This Means for NJ Residents

The NJ State Police excessive force settlement adds to ongoing concerns among New Jersey residents about law enforcement accountability, especially during routine stops involving force.

While the case has concluded legally, it raises policy questions:

• Are pain compliance tactics appropriately regulated?
• Should independent reviews of such cases become mandatory?
• How transparent are state agencies in disclosing use-of-force incidents?

Key Takeaways

• $150,000 settlement paid by New Jersey to resolve excessive force allegations.
• No admission of wrongdoing by the troopers or the State.
• Pain compliance tactics are again under scrutiny.
• Adds to a pattern of civil rights settlements involving NJ State Police.

Next Steps

• If you’ve experienced excessive force, contact us today to speak with a civil rights attorney. Our team is ready to help you understand your rights and pursue justice.
• If you’re facing DUI charges, explore your defense options before you appear in court.
• To review other settlements, explore TransparencyNJ’s legal accountability archive.
• Stay informed: Subscribe to our updates for more investigations into police conduct.

FAQs

What is the NJ State Police excessive force settlement about?
It involves a $150,000 payout by the State of New Jersey to resolve allegations of excessive force during a 2021 traffic stop in Deptford Township.

Was liability admitted in the case?
No. The settlement does not include any admission of wrongdoing.

What tactics were involved?
The use of pain compliance techniques, including punches and takedowns, during the arrest.

Can these settlements be found publicly?
Some are listed in public databases or obtained through OPRA requests. TransparencyNJ reports extensively on them.

How do I report excessive force by police?
Contact our office to speak directly with a New Jersey civil rights attorney. We can help you understand your legal options and take action to hold law enforcement accountable.