Portland City Council approves $100K settlement for civil rights lawsuit against police

The Portland City Council convened on May 8, 2025, to discuss two significant settlement ordinances related to civil rights lawsuits involving the Portland Police Bureau (PPB). The first ordinance addresses a $100,000 settlement for a lawsuit filed by Joseph Johnson, who alleged violations of his constitutional rights during an encounter with police in March 2023. The second ordinance proposes a $375,000 settlement for Megan Upbrook, who sustained injuries from a rubber ball distraction device during protests in June 2020.

The Johnson case stems from an incident where police detained him after discovering a stolen weapon in a parked vehicle. Johnson claims he was wrongfully arrested and mistreated, despite having a legally owned firearm. The city’s risk management team determined that settling the lawsuit was in the best interest of the city, avoiding the costs of a trial and potential higher damages.

During the meeting, public testimony highlighted community concerns regarding police accountability and the implications of these settlements. Mark Porras from Portland Copwatch expressed support for the settlement while urging the council to address systemic issues within the police department to prevent future misconduct. Other speakers, including Upbrook herself, detailed the physical and emotional toll of police actions during protests, emphasizing the need for better protections for demonstrators and accountability for law enforcement.

The Upbrook settlement arises from her injuries caused by a rubber ball distraction device, which she described as explosive and harmful. Following the incident, the PPB reviewed its crowd control policies and decided to discontinue the use of such devices. The settlement is seen as a step towards mitigating legal risks for the city while acknowledging the harm caused to Upbrook.

Council discussions reflected a mix of support and concern regarding the settlements. Some council members emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in police actions, while others questioned the appropriateness of the settlements given the circumstances surrounding the incidents.

As the council moves forward, these discussions underscore ongoing community concerns about police practices and the need for reforms to ensure accountability and protect civil rights. The outcomes of these settlements may influence future policy changes within the PPB and shape the city’s approach to public safety and community relations.