CIRCLEVILLE, Ohio — In a resolution to a case that sparked international outrage, the Circleville City Council has approved a $225,000 settlement with Jadarrius Rose, the truck driver attacked by a K-9 officer last year. The Guardian first broke the story that ignited calls for police reform and garnered significant international media attention.
Controversial Stop and K-9 Deployment:
The events unfolded during a July 4th, 2023 traffic stop when Rose was pulled over for a missing mudflap. Despite appearing to surrender, police bodycam footage showed him being mauled by the K-9 unit deployed by Officer Ryan Speakman. The incident prompted immediate backlash, with many citing excessive force and racial profiling concerns.
Officer Fired, Investigation Ensues:
Speakman was initially cleared of wrongdoing but later terminated, not for the bite itself, but allegedly for emotional responses to the media scrutiny. Meanwhile, conflicting statements from the city regarding the investigation further ignited public outcry.
Nationwide Attention and Calls for Change:
The incident went viral, prompting even the White House and Black Lives Matter to comment. The Department of Justice took notice, and Ohio Governor Mike DeWine called for increased police training. Rose faced felony charges later dropped, with a misdemeanor warrant currently outstanding.
Settlement Reached after Public Scrutiny:
After months of controversy and public pressure, the City Council opted for a sizeable settlement with Rose. While the details of the agreement remain confidential, it signifies a step towards resolving the incident and potentially preventing similar events in the future.