NYC Settles Sean Bell Case for $7 Million

Associated Press @ Google News - The fiancee of an unarmed man killed by police in 50-bullet barrage and a friend who survived the shooting said Wednesday that a settlement with New York City that topped $7 million was fair but not cause for celebration.

"Nobody wins in this," a somber Joseph Guzman — who was shot 17 times and still wears a leg brace — said at a news conference a day after the settlement was announced.

The deal in a case that ignited community outrage and raised questions about police firepower awards $3.25 million to the estate of Sean Bell, $3 million to Guzman and $900,000 to a third victim, Trent Benefield, minus 30 percent legal fees.

The Bell estate payout will benefit two young daughters he had with Nichole Paultre Bell, who legally took his name after his death. Read more.