18-year-old graffiti artist, Israel Hernandez, was shot by a Miami police officer’s Taser and immediately dropped to the ground, suffering cardiac arrest. Within the hour, the recent high-school graduate was pronounced dead. Just four hours following the tragedy, stun-gun manufacturer Taser International reached out to the Miami Beach Police Department with a message marked “confidential.”
The message, marked “TIMELY & URGENT”, contained guidance on how investigators should proceed with the analysis of Israel’s death. It offered advice such as collecting hair and nail samples, checking the teen’s body temperature, and observing the teen’s information prior to being stunned. The message also suggested the case’s medical examiner refer to medical researcher Deborah Mash–yet they failed to mention Mash has been paid to testify for the manufacturer in the event of a lawsuit.
Our very own personal injury Attorney Todd Falzone is representing the victim’s family, the Hernandez-Llachs. When asked about this considerable blurring of the lines between corporate interests, medical research, and legal affairs, Falzone passionately fights back against such injustices: “From the minute they find out someone dies, they’re doing everything they can behind the scenes to set up a ‘legal defense’ so the case goes away.” This unfair practice has been occurring for more than a decade, as Taser continues to cultivate these relationships with police, coroners, and various professionals who investigate any wrongful death lawsuits which may arise.
To learn more about Taser’s close involvement with their own investigations, view the video below and get the full story on Reuter’s website here.
Contact Our Personal Injury Lawyers in Florida Today
If you or a loved one has suffered adversely due to a Taser, our personal injury lawyers are passionate about advocating on your behalf. Our firm, Kelley/Uustal, understands just how devastating it is to suffer at the hands of another, which is why we will do everything in our power to fight for you and your rights.
