Solano County Approves $1.7 Million Settlement in Brutal Fairfield Police Arrest Case, Bringing Total Payout to $3.2 Million for Michael Perez

A significant stride towards justice has been made for Michael Perez, who endured a violent arrest by Fairfield police in 2021 that left him with a broken nose and lasting trauma. Solano County’s Board of Supervisors has officially approved a $1.7 million settlement, adding to a prior $1.5 million payout from the City of Fairfield, culminating in a total of $3.2 million awarded to Perez.

The incident, captured on harrowing body camera footage, unfolded in August 2021 when Perez was stopped for riding his bicycle against traffic.

What began as a minor infraction quickly escalated into a shocking display of excessive force by Fairfield police officers. Attorneys for Perez, Yasin Almadani and Adante Pointer, described how their client was violently slammed to the ground, kneed, and punched by officers, including Ofc. Mike Carne and Sgt.

Justin Ward.

Perez was held face down on scorching hot asphalt by multiple officers, suffering a broken nose that necessitated surgery. Adding insult to injury, he was initially charged with resisting arrest and battery on a peace officer – charges that were later dropped, unequivocally demonstrating the lack of justification for the force employed.

The federal lawsuit filed by Perez highlighted a troubling pattern of excessive force within the Fairfield Police Department, according to his legal team.

The clarity of the body camera footage played a pivotal role in corroborating Perez’s account and exposing the egregious nature of the arrest. This evidence underscored the critical need for accountability within law enforcement agencies.

The dual settlements—$1.7 million from Solano County and $1.5 million from the City of Fairfield—reflect the substantial harm inflicted upon Michael Perez and serve as a powerful statement against police misconduct.

This substantial financial resolution aims to compensate Perez for his physical injuries, emotional distress, and the profound violation of his civil rights. It also sends a clear message to law enforcement regarding the severe consequences of unjust and brutal actions.

While no amount of money can fully undo the trauma experienced, this settlement represents a crucial victory in the ongoing fight for police accountability and justice for victims of excessive force.

It stands as a testament to the perseverance of Michael Perez and his legal team in seeking redress and demanding that those in power uphold their duty to protect and serve all members of the community.