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Public raises $1.125 million settlement; city says claim involved non-police employee and insurance covered most costs
Summary
A member of the public said the city paid $1,125,000 to settle a 2022 accident; city staff clarified the incident involved a non-police employee and that the city's insurer paid the settlement minus a $100,000 deductible.
During public comment at the March 13 meeting a resident said a 2022 vehicle accident resulted in a settlement of $1,125,000 paid by the City of Ridgecrest. City staff responded with clarifications.
The public commenter said the accident occurred on French Avenue and that the city agreed to a settlement of $1,125,000. City management responded that the incident did not involve any Ridgecrest police officer but another city employee, and that the payment amount was managed through the city's insurance provider. City Manager Martin (surname given in the meeting record as Bridal in one reference) said the insurance company paid the settlement amount less a $100,000 deductible borne by the city.
Council and staff did not take formal action on the matter during the meeting. Staff characterized the incident as an unfortunate mishap and reminded the council that the city carries insurance that covers large settlements subject to deductibles.
