02-04-2003 - Reuben Caldwell VS. City of West Covina• City of West Covina
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MEIW6 ND UM
TO: Andrew G. Pasmant, City Manager A GENDA
and City Council
FROM: Erin Patricia Hoppe ITEM NO. B-2a
Risk Manager February arY 4 2003
SUBJECT: REUBEN CALDWELL
VS. CITY OF WEST COVINA
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the monetary loss claim of Reuben Caldwell
be denied and the claimant be so notified.
DISCUSSION:
This claim arises from a traffic stop and vehicle impound on September 8, 2002. Claimant alleges
that officers of the West Covina Police Department wrongfully impounded his vehicle. The
amount of claim had not been determined at time of presentation.
Investigation by the Police Department does not substantiate liability on the part of the City.
Claimant was stopped for driving a vehicle with a defective windshield. Claimant did not have a
valid driver's license in his possession. The officer ran a DMV check that revealed claimant was
driving on a suspended license. Pursuant to vehicle code provisions, claimant's vehicle was
impounded.
After a review of the investigation in this matter, staff and the City's claims administrator,
VeriClaim, determined the officer's actions were appropriate and recommend denial.
As you are aware, since all claims should be considered potential lawsuits, it is requested that all
Councilmembers refrain from making specific public comments so as not to prejudice any claim.
Specific questions should be referred to the City Attorney.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Unknown at this time.
Prepared by:
Lai
Debbie Dominguez
Safety & Claims Manager
Reviewed & Approved by:
*hnricia Hoppe
Risk Manager