City of Manchester Evaluating Next Steps Following Mormann Lawsuit Ruling
The City of Manchester is evaluating its next steps following a wrongful death lawsuit ruling on Friday.
A Delaware County jury has ordered the City to pay $4.25 million to the family of 31-year old Augustin “Gus” Mormann of Colesburg. The lawsuit alleged that Manchester Police Lt. Jim Wessels’ actions were unjustified during a high-speed motorcycle chase involving Mormann in the Manchester area in December 2020. It alleged Lt. Wessels violated protocol, continuing the chase on a county road north of town and coming into contact with Mormann’s motorcycle twice, causing him to lose control and crash. Mormann died as a result of his injuries a month later in January 2021. Wessels retired in 2022.
The jury sided with the Mormann family on Friday, finding that Wessels’ actions were unjustified and led to Mormann’s death.
On Monday night, the Manchester City Council met in closed session to discuss litigation – although the City did not specify if it was the Mormann case. Manchester City Manager Tim Vick:
In addition to the City of Manchester being ordered to pay $4.25 million, Wessels is responsible for paying an additional $10,000 in punitive damages.
photo courtesy of Janelle Tucker/KMCH
