Family of Angelo Quinto Receives Compensation, Pushes for Reform
The family of Angelo Quinto, a Navy veteran who died in 2020 after a police encounter in Antioch, California, has reached a settlement of $7.5 million with the city. Quinto was experiencing a mental health crisis when officers used a restraint technique that resulted in his death.
Lawsuit Alleges Excessive Force
The lawsuit filed by the family against the city of Antioch, former police chief Tammany Brooks, and four responding officers, claimed officers used excessive force during Quinto’s apprehension.
Mental Health Crisis Leads to Call for Help
On December 23rd, 2020, Quinto’s family, concerned about his mental state, called 911 for assistance. According to the lawsuit, officers arrived and used a restraint technique involving a knee on Quinto’s neck for nearly five minutes.
Unresponsive and Tragic Outcome
The lawsuit states that after five minutes of restraint, Quinto became unresponsive. He lost consciousness and was transported to a hospital, where he died three days later.
Settlement and Reforms
John Burris, an attorney representing the family, acknowledged the financial settlement cannot replace Quinto, but commended the family’s dedication to fostering a better relationship between Antioch’s community and its police department.
Antioch Reflects on Tragedy and Change
Antioch Mayor Lamar Hernandez-Thorpe acknowledged Quinto’s death as a catalyst for change in the city. The city, located east of San Francisco, has taken steps to improve response to mental health emergencies and strengthen police accountability.
