Breaking News: $500,000 Settlement | South Pasadena Settles 1st Amendment Civil Rights Case

In a move to resolve the contentious case, the City Council authorized the settlement amount, which was agreed upon by both parties.

FILE PHOTO: Eric Fabbro | SouthPasadenan.com News | BLM Organizers/ protesters Fahren James, and Victoria Patterson

The City of South Pasadena announced today that it has reached a settlement in a high-profile civil rights lawsuit filed in October 2021. The case, brought forward by plaintiffs Fahren James and Victoria Patterson, centered around First Amendment rights and has now been settled for a sum of $500,000.

Legal representation for the City of South Pasadena was provided by the law firm of Carpenter, Rothans & Dumont. In a move to resolve the contentious case, the City Council authorized the settlement amount, which was agreed upon by both parties.

While the specific details of the case have not been released to the public, the settlement marks a significant resolution in a case that has garnered considerable attention both locally and nationally. The lawsuit raised important questions about the protection of First Amendment rights, which guarantee freedom of speech, religion, press, assembly, and petition.

- Advertisement -

The settlement reached between the City of South Pasadena and the plaintiffs demonstrates the City’s commitment to addressing and resolving legal disputes in a timely manner. It is unclear at this time how the settlement will impact future First Amendment cases in the area or nationwide. As more information becomes available, we will continue to provide updates on this developing story.

From the City of South Pasadena:

“The City of South Pasadena has settled a civil rights court case filed in October 2021 by plaintiffs Fahren James and Victoria Patterson. The case was handled on behalf of the City by Carpenter, Rothans & Dumont. In the interest of resolving this matter, the City Council authorized the settlement amount of $500,000.”

Background (by The South Pasadenan) CLICK HERE for previous reports

NOV. 16, 2022: According to one of the plaintiffs’ attorneys, Laboni Hoq, the City neglected to train its police force on policies and practices for handling hate crimes, resulting in the violations. The City’s investigation supported 21 of 53 administrative complaints against nine officers regarding the demonstrations, but it remains unclear whether any personnel actions were taken in response.

SCREENCAP: BlackLivesMatterSouthPAsadena | Protester Fahren James speaks to SPPD Officer Smith

The lawsuit also involved allegations against BLM opponents Richard Cheney and Joseph Richcreek, who were accused of attacking the plaintiffs. The court dismissed arguments by Cpl. Wise and Sgt. Ronnie that they could not arrest Cheney or Richcreek due to the state law requiring an officer to witness a misdemeanor.

SCREENCAP: BlackLivesMatterSouthPAsadena | Protester Fahren James speaks to motorist Richard Cheney as he is parked on the sidewalk during a Saturday, October 3 incident in which protesters claim Cheney almost hit James and potentially other pedestrians

South Pasadena Seeks Dismissal of BLM Protesters’ Civil Rights Complaints