Lakeland Approved Settlement for K-9 Lawsuit
The city settled a federal civil rights lawsuit filed by a resident bitten by a police dog during a 2019 search.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Law Enforcement
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Lakeland city commissioners have voted to pay $125,000 to resolve a civil rights lawsuit involving a police K-9 attack. The settlement ends claims of false arrest and negligence following an incident where an innocent resident was bitten.
Why it matters
The payment resolves legal challenges regarding excessive force and police conduct that have spanned several years. It closes a case that questioned police department search protocols and the treatment of citizens during routine operations.
The settlement of $125,000 concludes the federal civil rights case brought by Kim Saddlers against the city and two former officers. The victim previously faced criminal charges that were dismissed in court.
The players
Kim Saddlers
She is the Lakeland resident who filed a federal civil rights lawsuit after being injured by a police dog.
Chad Landry
He is a former officer involved in the 2019 incident who was fired from the police department in November 2019.
Benjamin Blommel
He is a former officer associated with the case who resigned from his position in May 2021.
Judge Honeywell
She is the presiding federal judge who permitted several of the plaintiff's claims to move toward trial in September 2025.
The details
The incident occurred in March 2019 when officers, while searching for a suspect near a Lakeland apartment complex, mistakenly identified a resident as the target. The resulting K-9 bite caused a 10-inch gash on the victim's arm that required 30 stitches.
Timeline
March 11, 2019: Kim Saddlers was bitten by a police K-9.
Nov. 2, 2021: Criminal charges against Saddlers were dismissed.
Sept. 13, 2022: Saddlers filed the federal civil rights lawsuit.
September 2025: Judge Honeywell allowed several claims to proceed to trial.
September 21, 2026: City Commission voted to approve the settlement.
Legal Context
This settlement aligns with legal standards established by the Graham v. Connor objective reasonableness test for excessive force claims. It reflects a growing trend of municipal agencies opting to resolve civil rights litigation to avoid the uncertainties and costs of a federal jury trial.
Residents may see a renewed focus on department oversight as the city navigates the conclusion of this litigation. No specific changes to local security measures or police patrol schedules have been announced following the vote.
The takeaway
The city's decision to settle highlights the significant financial and reputational risks associated with improper use of force during routine police searches. Residents should stay informed about oversight measures implemented by their local authorities to prevent similar future incidents.
Further reading
For more information on local department policies, visit the Law Enforcement section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by LkldNow.
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