Man rejects $11 million verdict, chooses second trial against police

DETROIT (AP) - A man has rejected an $11 million reduced verdict and instead will take another trial against Genesee County officers who are accused of excessive force.

William Jennings believes his injuries at the county jail in 2010 are worth more than $11 million. A jury last fall came up with $36.6 million, but federal Judge Avern Cohn reduced it in May.

Cohn said there's "no doubt" that Jennings was the victim of excessive force after a drunken driving arrest in Flint Township.

Jail video showed officers acting aggressively after Jennings lowered his hand during a search. He fought back during a struggle, and a mask was placed over his head. He was restrained for more than two hours.

Besides having a second trial, attorney Kevin Ernst says Jennings can appeal Cohn's decision to reduce the verdict.

Published: Mon, Jun 19, 2017