Source: NBC 6 South Florida
A man has filed a lawsuit against Miami-Dade County, its sheriff and several deputies over a crash that left him with life-changing injuries.
Joey Serpa, who was 21 at the time, was riding a motorcycle when he was hit by a Miami-Dade Sheriff’s patrol car. In the complaint, he accuses deputies of false arrest, excessive force and violating his civil rights. The lawsuit also blames them for the crash.
The accident happened in the early morning hours of May 24 near Miami International Airport. Months later, Serpa is still hospitalized.
According to the lawsuit and incident reports, Joey’s motorcycle was hit from behind by a Miami-Dade patrol car.
According to Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office pursuit policy: “Deputies may only engage in pursuits when they have a reasonable belief that the fleeing subject has committed or attempted to commit a felony which involves the use or threat of physical force or violence to a person. All other pursuits are prohibited.”
In their report, deputies say Joey “intentionally” and “aggressively” hit the brakes – saying he caused the crash, something the lawsuit disputes.
Joey has had more than a dozen surgeries, including the amputation of his legs due to complications from sepsis.
Nearly a month after the crash, the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office decided not to bring any charges against Joey, according to an incident report. The Sheriff’s Office says both deputies involved are on active duty after being temporarily placed on administrative duty.
In an emailed statement, Det. Joseph Peguero wrote: “The Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office is committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and professionalism in all interactions. This case is currently under an internal Affairs Investigation.”
WHO SHOULD I CALL?
For over two decades, the lawyers at Suarez & Montero have been helping accident victims and their families collect just financial compensation and see justice for their injuries and losses. Call our law firm today at (305) 631-1911 to speak with one of our personal injury lawyers who will be able to inform you of your eligibility towards compensation for your injuries and losses that you may have incurred due to a recent accident.
