Pamela Martin, a Hillsborough County widow, was awarded over $1.1 million in a wrongful-death lawsuit after a sheriff’s deputy, driving at high speed without emergency lights or siren, struck and killed her husband, Michael Keen, in February 2021. A jury found the deputy negligent, awarding Martin compensation for economic losses and pain and suffering.
However, Florida’s sovereign immunity law caps payouts by government entities at $200,000 per person and $300,000 per incident. To collect the larger award, Martin must pursue a “claims bill” through the state legislature, a process that could take 5–10 years or more and requires approval by lawmakers. The sheriff’s office can oppose the bill, and Martin must testify publicly about her loss.
Lawmakers are considering raising liability limits, which could ease future cases like hers.
🔗 Original article and video: https://www.tampabay28.com/news/local-news/i-team-investigates/widow-wins-1-1m-lawsuit-against-florida-sheriffs-office-but-may-wait-years-to-collect-money
