The Atlanta City Council has agreed to pay $3.8 million to settle a lawsuit by the family of Johnny Hollman, a church deacon who died in a struggle with a city police officer following a minor car crash. The family had sued the city, Officer Kiran Kimbrough, and Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum, claiming that Kimbrough used excessive force when Hollman refused to sign a citation finding him at fault for the crash. Kimbrough’s attorney stated that Hollman resisted arrest, and Kimbrough acted lawfully when he deployed his stun gun and used force. The settlement was unanimously approved by the city council at its regular meeting, allowing the family to focus on healing from the loss of their beloved father.
Hollman’s daughter, Arnitra, expressed gratitude to Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens and the city council for their support in seeking justice for her father. Body camera video of Hollman’s arrest showed Kimbrough shocking him with a stun gun after he repeatedly stated that he could not breathe. An autopsy determined that Hollman’s death was a homicide, with heart disease also contributing to the cause. Relatives shared that Hollman was on his way home from Bible study at his daughter’s house and bringing dinner to his wife when he collided with another vehicle while turning across a busy street just west of downtown. The released video showed Kimbrough demanding that Hollman sign the citation, but Hollman maintained his innocence, leading to a struggle between the two men and ultimately Hollman becoming unresponsive on the ground.
The incident involving Hollman’s death has sparked outrage and calls for accountability within the community. The body camera footage has raised concerns about the use of force by law enforcement officers and the need for reforms to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The settlement reached by the city council acknowledges the wrongful death of Hollman and seeks to address the pain and suffering experienced by his family. The attorney representing Hollman’s family stated that the settlement provides closure for the family as they continue to mourn the loss of their father and focus on healing from the devastating event.
The Atlanta City Council’s decision to approve the $3.8 million settlement reflects a commitment to accountability and justice in cases of police misconduct and excessive use of force. The agreement serves as a step towards healing and reconciliation between the city, law enforcement, and the community affected by Hollman’s death. The settlement also sends a message that the city takes responsibility for the actions of its police officers and is willing to make amends for any harm caused. Moving forward, there may be ongoing efforts to implement reforms and training programs within the Atlanta Police Department to prevent similar incidents and ensure the safety and well-being of all residents.
The tragedy of Johnny Hollman’s death serves as a reminder of the importance of holding law enforcement accountable for their actions and ensuring that excessive use of force is not tolerated. The settlement reached in this case reflects a recognition of the pain and suffering experienced by the Hollman family and a commitment to addressing the systemic issues that may have contributed to this tragic event. As the community continues to seek justice and reforms in policing practices, the memory of Johnny Hollman will remain a rallying cry for accountability and transparency in law enforcement. The city’s response to this incident will shape future interactions between police officers and residents, with the hope of preventing similar tragedies and building trust within the community.
