Handcuffed Passenger in Police Car Struck by Train
A Colorado woman who sustained serious injuries after a freight train collided with a parked police vehicle in which she was handcuffed has reached an agreement in her lawsuit against the involved municipalities. The settlement totals $8.5 million.
Settlement Reached, Details Emerge
Attorney Eric Ziporin, representing two of the officers sued in the 2022 incident, confirmed the settlement on Wednesday. The funds will be split evenly between the city of Fort Lupton and the nearby town of Platteville, which employed the three officers involved. Fort Lupton Police Chief William Carnes released a statement, indicating the settlement allows “all parties to move forward.”
Officers Involved and Charges
The lawsuit named former Platteville police sergeant Pablo Vazquez, along with Fort Lupton officers Jordan Steinke and Ryan Thomeczek. Steinke and Vazquez received probation sentences related to the crash, while Thomeczek faced no charges.
Incident Details and Legal Actions
Yareni Rios, then 20 years old, was pulled over by Vazquez on September 16th, 2022, following a reported road rage incident involving a weapon. Steinke and Thomeczek arrived shortly after to assist. According to the lawsuit and court testimony, Steinke placed Rios in the back of Vazquez’s patrol car, which was parked on railroad tracks.
Body Camera Footage Raises Questions
Steinke’s body camera footage reportedly showed the railroad tracks and crossing signs in view. Despite this, Steinke testified she was unaware of the car’s location. She was ultimately convicted of reckless endangerment and assault, leading to termination from her job and a 2 and a half year probation sentence.
Rios’ Injuries and Legal Action
The lawsuit details that Rios sustained serious injuries, including head trauma, after the train struck the vehicle. Despite screaming for help and an open car door, the lawsuit alleges the caged back seat prevented her escape. The lawsuit further accused the officers of recklessness and failing to ensure Rios’ safety while in custody. Rios herself pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor menacing charge.
