The government will pay almost $5 million to the family of Ashli Babbitt, who was tragically killed while attempting to breach the House Speaker’s Lobby on January 6, 2021. Outgoing U.S. Capitol Police Chief Tom Manger confirmed this development, stating that the Justice Department agreed to settle a wrongful death claim brought on behalf of Babbitt’s estate.
Manger expressed his disappointment regarding the settlement in a recent message to police officers, noting that he learned of the settlement amount a few weeks prior. He publicly disagreed with the Justice Department’s decision to resolve the lawsuit.
This settlement comes after a civil suit initiated by the conservative activist group Judicial Watch, which sought $30 million on behalf of Babbitt’s estate and her late husband. The lawsuit alleged negligence on the part of U.S. Capitol Police Lt. Michael Byrd, claiming that his use of lethal force was unwarranted, as Babbitt was unarmed, had her hands raised in a non-threatening manner, and posed no danger at the time she was shot.
The case was initially filed in California but was later moved to federal court in Washington, D.C., where it was ultimately defended by the Justice Department under the Biden administration. Previous internal reviews by the U.S. Capitol Police found that Lt. Byrd acted appropriately in the chaotic situation, asserting that he saved lives during the event.
Babbitt’s death has become a symbol for many Trump supporters, who argue that excessive force was used against individuals involved in the January 6 riot. Babbitt’s mother has been active in advocating for those charged in connection with the Capitol events, leading protests and even securing discussions with significant political figures regarding her daughter and the broader implications of the January 6 events.
This settlement represents a significant moment in the ongoing discussions surrounding the events of January 6, illustrating the continuing ramifications for all parties involved. It highlights the complexities of law enforcement actions during civil unrest and the sensitivities surrounding political events in the United States.
While the situation remains contentious and divisive, the resolution of this lawsuit may lead to important conversations about accountability and the use of force by law enforcement in future incidents.