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$100,000 Awarded Hospital Guard Injured In Escape
While seeking medical treatment for a prisoner at the University of
Massachusetts Medical Center, an officer from the City of Worcester Police
Department became distracted by something outside the window. The prisoner,
incorrectly secured by the wrists with leg shackles, slipped free and
bolted form the hospital room. In the ensuing chase, the prisoner assaulted
a police officer. Hospital guard Stephen Lamachia was also assaulted when
he tried to help. Lamachia then chased the prisoner who stole a police
car, ultimately ramming the stolen cruiser and capturing the prisoner.
Lamachia sued the city of Worcester for negligence and claimed a minimum of
$12,000 in lost wages and $5,000 in past medical costs. The city only
offered $15,000 total. On June 6, 2005, The jury awarded Lamachia $100,000
for his injuries to a knee and a finger, both of which required surgery.
The city appealed. See: Lamachia v. City of Worcester, Case no. 98 00097B
(Superior Court).
Massachusetts Medical Center, an officer from the City of Worcester Police
Department became distracted by something outside the window. The prisoner,
incorrectly secured by the wrists with leg shackles, slipped free and
bolted form the hospital room. In the ensuing chase, the prisoner assaulted
a police officer. Hospital guard Stephen Lamachia was also assaulted when
he tried to help. Lamachia then chased the prisoner who stole a police
car, ultimately ramming the stolen cruiser and capturing the prisoner.
Lamachia sued the city of Worcester for negligence and claimed a minimum of
$12,000 in lost wages and $5,000 in past medical costs. The city only
offered $15,000 total. On June 6, 2005, The jury awarded Lamachia $100,000
for his injuries to a knee and a finger, both of which required surgery.
The city appealed. See: Lamachia v. City of Worcester, Case no. 98 00097B
(Superior Court).
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Related legal case
Lamachia v. City of Worcester
| Year | 2005 |
|---|---|
| Cite | Case no. 98 00097B (Superior Court) |
| Level | State Trial Court |
| Conclusion | Jury Verdict |
| Attorney Fees | 0 |
| Damages | 100000 |
| Injunction Status | N/A |