Kasia Park and Susan Weidner Win on Summary Judgment for the City of Portland

Drummond Woodsum attorneys Kasia Park and Susan Weidner represented the City of Portland, two police officers, and a firefighter in a civil lawsuit brought by John Cohen, the father of a man who drowned in Portland’s Back Cove three years ago. On November 27th, a U.S. District judge issued a ruling in favor of the City and its employees.

The civil lawsuit filed by Cohen included constitutional and state law claims alleging that the City and its employees not only failed to save his son but that their actions made the situation more dangerous and contributed to his death. He also alleged that the City failed to adequately train police on how to intervene in mental health situations. For over two years, Attorneys Kasia Park and Susan Weidner have vigorously defended their clients and were able to demonstrate to the Court that the City and its employees did not cause the death.

Following the dismissal, Kasia was quoted by the Portland Press Herald saying, “The City recognizes that this was a tragedy and again sends its condolences to the family of Eric Cohen for their loss. While the City and all of the first responders involved that day wish the rescue efforts had been successful, we feel the Court was correct in its thoughtful decision finding that neither the City nor any City employee caused Mr. Cohen’s death or otherwise violated his constitutional rights.”

As a member of the firm’s litigation practice, Kasia is a litigator who has substantial experience handling a broad range of civil disputes, including civil rights, employment, and general commercial disputes. She regularly represents clients in federal and state courts and has substantial jury trial experience. Susan is also a member of the firm’s litigation practice, with particular expertise in procedure and crafting legal arguments.