Conclusion Meanings:
'Exonerated': or 'Within NYPD Guidelines' - the alleged conduct occurred but did not violate the NYPD's own rules, which often give officers significant discretion.
'Substantiated': The alleged conduct occurred and it violated the rules. The NYPD has discretion over what, if any, discipline is imposed.
'Unfounded': Evidence suggests that the event or alleged conduct did not occur.
'Unsubstantiated': or 'Unable to Determine' - CCRB has fully investigated but could not affirmatively conclude both that the conduct occurred and that it broke the rules.
Further details on conclusion definitions.
Wright, Adam vs City of New York, et al.
Case # 17CV03798,
U.S. District Court - Southern District NY, May 31, 2017, ended October 25, 2018
$24,001 Settlement
Complaint
Description: On February 21, 2016, plaintiff was pulled over by defendants Johnson and Smith. Plaintiff was ordered to exit the vehicle. Defendants searched the vehicle and frisked plaintiff. No contraband was found. Defendant Johnson asked plaintiff to take a breathalyzer test, and informed him that he could take it at the precinct. Plaintiff elected to be tested at the precinct. Plaintiff was handcuffed and transported to the precinct, where a chemical test confirmed that plaintiff had not consumed any alcohol. Defendant Johnson subsequently fabricated evidence to accuse plaintiff of various traffic violations. Those summonses were ultimately dismissed.