A settlement of over $5 million has been struck between the Trump administration and the family of Ashli Babbitt, who was shot and killed during the Capitol invasion on January 6. The deal comes after Babbitt’s estate filed a wrongful death lawsuit, initially requesting $30 million in damages.
During the tumultuous demonstration, Babbitt, a veteran of the U.S. Air Force, was shot by a Capitol Police officer as he tried to access a restricted section of the Capitol building. According to earlier law enforcement internal evaluations, the officer acted legally to safeguard members of Congress.
Some law enforcement authorities have criticized the settlement, claiming that the money may deter cops from taking strong action in dangerous circumstances. Leadership of Capitol Police voiced worries about the settlement’s potential impact on other uniformed personnel.
A portion of the compensation is anticipated to go to the Babbitt family’s attorneys, including a well-known conservative legal firm. Before the arrangement is finalized, federal court approval is still needed.