Statement Regarding Jerime Mitchell and Bracken Mitchell v. Lucas Jones and the City of Cedar Rapids

The City of Cedar Rapids released the following statement:

The jury trial in the case of Jerime Mitchell and Bracken Mitchell v. Lucas Jones and the City of Cedar Rapids was scheduled to begin on April 20, 2021.  The case has been settled as the City’s insurance carrier, States Insurance, agreed to pay the Mitchells $8 million to dismiss their claims with no acknowledgement of fault or liability on the part of Defendants.

Attorneys for Jones and the City were fully prepared to go to trial in defense of all claims.  Pursuant to the City’s insurance policy, States Insurance has control over the settlement of this case and determined settlement to be in the best interests of its insured, the City. 

In 2016, a Linn County grand jury declined to indict the Police officer on criminal charges following an investigation by the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation. The City’s subsequent internal review determined Lucas Jones acted properly when he encountered the facts and circumstances presented during his encounter with Jerime Mitchell November 1, 2016. 

This case has been divisive to our community and it is our hope that we can continue to enhance relationships that build trust between our community and our Police Department.  We all share the desire for a safe community.