Louisiana state officials have reached a tentative $4.8 million agreement to settle a federal wrongful death lawsuit with the family of Ronald Greene. Greene, a Black motorist, who died in 2019 following a brutal roadside encounter with five white Louisiana State Police officers.
The agreement marks a major turning point in a case that became a flashpoint for police accountability.
Key Details of the Settlement
Amount: $4.8 million.
Current Status: Tentative; requires final approval from the Louisiana Legislature.
Official Stance: Louisiana State Police spokesperson Capt. Russell Graham declined to comment on specific terms, citing the fact that the process is not yet finalized.
The circumstances surrounding Greene’s 2019 death remained hidden for two years. State police initially claimed the 49-year-old died from injuries sustained after crashing into a tree following a high-speed chase.
However, leaked body camera footage told a much grimmer story. The video showed troopers:
–Using stun guns on an unarmed Greene while he apologized.
–Placing him in a chokehold and punching him.
–Dragging him facedown while handcuffed and shackled.
–Leaving him prone on the pavement without medical assistance.
DOJ Findings: In January 2025, the Justice Department under the Biden administration concluded that Louisiana State Police engaged in a “pattern or practice” of excessive force.
Though the settlement would close the civil chapter of this case, the legacy of the footage and the initial department cover-up continues to loom over Louisiana law enforcement. See less
