Transcription
Of the family of Randy Cox, the man paralyzed in New Haven Police custody, outraged today after five officers were criminally charged. They say the charges aren't enough.
News 12 Connecticut's John Craven in New Haven, speaking for the first time since five New Haven police officers were arrested. Randy Cox's family calls the charges a slap in the face. So, how is this fair?
Randy Cox's sister, shocked that the officers are only facing misdemeanor charges. Cox was paralyzed inside a police van with no seat belts, rolled to your right side. Later, officers forced Cox into a wheelchair before dragging him to a holding cell.
"If this was me and my kids were at home and one of them got hurt and I didn't even have nothing to do with it and they broke their neck and I didn't take him to the hospital, I would be arrested on the spot," she said.
Cox's family is suing for $100 million. But in a court filing, the City of New Haven blamed Cox for contributory negligence. Despite that, the mayor insists he wants to settle the case.
"And it is incumbent upon the city, as we have these conversations with Randy's attorneys, to preserve our rights," he said.
As for the officers, they argue their actions were reasonable and blamed Cox's injuries on his own negligence and carelessness. And they said that Randy interfered with the investigation.
"I mean, what video are they looking at?" she asked.
All five cops are on paid leave while an internal investigation continues. "I don't have a timeline, um, but obviously this is important, right? So, we're going to move as quickly as possible."
But Cox's family says time is running out. They say he's already racked up millions in medical bills. He has to ring a coral bell to ask for a sip of water. The cup is sitting right next to him, but he can't pick it up.
Those officers' first court date is December 8th. Expect them to be greeted by a lot of protesters in New Haven. John Craven, News 12 Connecticut.