The City of St. Petersburg has agreed to pay $2.5 million to resolve a lawsuit brought by Heriberto Sanchez-Mayen, a 62-year-old man who suffered devastating injuries after being arrested for trespassing. The case has raised serious concerns over police procedures, transport safety, and how injured detainees are treated in custody.
$2.5M Police Misconduct Lawsuit after Trespassing Arrest
In June 2023, Sanchez-Mayen, who was homeless at the time, was arrested by Officer Sarah Gaddis after being found sleeping in a green space on private property. Although she initially indicated a citation would be issued, Gaddis changed course and decided to jail Sanchez-Mayen, citing repeated incidents.
He was later transported in a police van operated by Officer Michael Thacker. The van lacked seatbelts or safety restraints. During the trip, a sudden stop caused Sanchez-Mayen—who was handcuffed and unsecured—to be violently thrown into a metal divider, knocking him unconscious.
Surveillance footage captured Thacker dragging the unresponsive man out of the van at the Pinellas County Jail. His head hit the bumper and the ground. Emergency services arrived shortly after, transporting him to the hospital. The result: a catastrophic spinal injury and the eventual amputation of both legs above the knees.
Legal Action and the $2.5M Police Misconduct Lawsuit
Sanchez-Mayen filed a federal lawsuit in March 2023 against the City of St. Petersburg, Officer Gaddis, and Officer Thacker. Allegations included false arrest, battery, and excessive force. While a judge later dismissed claims against Gaddis and narrowed those against Thacker, two serious claims remained: battery and excessive force.
The case was ultimately resolved through mediation. On April 3, 2025, the City Council approved a $2.5 million settlement. Sanchez-Mayen will receive $200,000 immediately, with the rest pending approval by the Florida Legislature.
What Legal Experts Are Saying about a $2.5M Police Misconduct Lawsuit
Attorney Tom Scolaro, representing Sanchez-Mayen, said the settlement “acknowledges both the severity of the injuries and the city’s responsibility.” His legal team emphasized the urgency of resolving the case due to Sanchez-Mayen’s medical condition and shortened life expectancy.
Another lawyer on the case, Dan Faherty, pointed out that prolonged litigation could have outlasted the client’s ability to benefit from the outcome. The settlement funds will be placed in a trust to help cover expenses not handled by Medicaid.
No Disciplinary Action Taken except the $2.5M Police Misconduct Lawsuit
Despite the lawsuit, neither officer involved faced internal discipline. A spokesperson for the police department confirmed both officers remain in their positions. The department also confirmed there are no current plans to require seatbelts in detainee transport vans.
Implications for Public Policy and Civil Rights
U.S. District Judge William Jung condemned the handling of Sanchez-Mayen, particularly calling the act of dragging him from the van “reckless and callous.” Yet, without any formal consequences or policy reforms, the case underscores gaps in both legal accountability and department oversight.
Need Legal Help? Know Your Rights
If you or someone you know has suffered due to excessive force or police negligence, it’s critical to speak with a qualified police misconduct attorney near me or a personal injury lawyer in Tampa. Legal professionals such as Morgan and Morgan Tampa or the best St. Pete personal injury attorney can help you determine whether you have a viable case.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What percentage do most personal injury lawyers take?
Most personal injury lawyers are taking between 14% and 42% of the final settlement if you are in California or Florida.
How hard is it to win or settle and get paid in a personal injury lawsuit?
The difficulty depends on the evidence, witnesses, and nature of the injury. With proper legal support and documentation, victims often succeed, especially in cases involving video evidence or medical documentation.
Can I file a lawsuit if I was injured during a police arrest?
Yes. If you believe you were mistreated, injured, or subjected to excessive force during an arrest, consult a police misconduct lawyer near me to evaluate your rights.
Final Thoughts
This case highlights the importance of oversight in law enforcement practices and reminds us of the critical role attorneys play in holding government agencies accountable. While the settlement will never fully restore what Sanchez-Mayen lost, it serves as a step toward justice—and a reminder that legal recourse exists for victims of misconduct.
If you’re in need of trusted representation, contact a personal injury lawyer in Tampa or a police misconduct attorney to ensure your rights are protected.