Significiant payout in Espanola foam ball suit

“It’s a foam football that accidentally hit a police car and our investigation showed this was a police officer who never should have been hired in the first place,” said Santa Fe attorney John Day, who represented the Tapia family.

“He (former Espanola officer John Vigil) actually used what is called a throat strike,” said Day, which he stated was “basically using deadly force.” Dolores Tapia’s teenage son’s windpipe was not injured, however, he suffered from other injuries, said Day.

“It was a significant settlement,” said Day. “It was more than sufficient to send a message to the city. The family was satisfied and feels vindicated.”

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