NEWS FROM THE CITY ATTORNEY'S OFFICE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

December 18, 2001

CITY OF OAKLAND SETTLES SIGNIFICANT PERSONAL INJURY CASE

Oakland, CA-City Attorney John Russo announced the settlement of a tragic automobile accident case involving a police vehicle in the amount of $2.75 million.

The accident occurred on September 9, 2000. An Oakland police officer, responding to a call, accidentally collided with a vehicle in the intersection. The plaintiff, Ms. Bernice Berry, was a passenger in the vehicle. As a result of the side-impact collision, she sustained severe and permanent physical injuries, including permanent brain damage.

The City of Oakland will pay to Ms. Mamie Lee Joe, guardian ad litem for Ms. Berry, and her attorney
$2 million, part of which will be used to purchase an annuity which will provide monthly payments for Ms. Joe's long-term attendant and medical care. The City's excess insurer, Kempes, will pay the remaining $750,000.