Antioch, California – The family of Angelo Quinto, a Navy veteran who tragically died following an encounter with Antioch police in December 2020, has reached a $7.5 million settlement with the city. This settlement marks a significant development in a case that has sparked conversations about police conduct and mental health crisis response.

The Incident and Lawsuit

Angelo Quinto, a 30-year-old Filipino American, was experiencing a mental health crisis on December 23, 2020, when Antioch police responded to a call regarding a dispute with his mother. Upon their arrival, paramedics found Quinto unresponsive, with signs of physical distress. Despite life-saving efforts, he later died at a hospital.

The civil rights lawsuit filed on behalf of Quinto’s family alleged that he was forcibly restrained during the crisis, leading to asphyxia and his subsequent death. Despite these claims, in 2022, Contra Costa County District Attorney Diana Becton decided not to file criminal charges against the involved officers, citing contested factors like Quinto’s alleged drug use and the controversial excited delirium syndrome.

Legal Challenges and Settlement

The decision not to pursue criminal charges was met with disappointment and frustration from Quinto’s family and their legal representation. Attorney Ben Nisenbaum criticized the notion of excited delirium as a phony cause of death, highlighting the conflicting opinions surrounding the case.

However, the recent settlement with the city of Antioch represents a form of acknowledgment and accountability. John Burris, representing Quinto’s family, emphasized that while no amount of money can compensate for Angelo’s tragic death, the settlement demonstrates a commitment to improving police-community relations.

Impact and Advocacy

Quinto’s family has been instrumental in pushing for systemic changes in law enforcement practices. Their efforts have led to the introduction of body-worn cameras, the establishment of mental health crisis teams, and legislative reforms aimed at addressing issues like the excited delirium designation.

Press Conference and Continued Advocacy

To address the case and the recent settlement, Quinto’s family, along with their legal representation and Antioch Mayor Lamar Thorpe-Hernandez, will hold a press conference on Wednesday at 1 p.m. at 1909 Crestwood Ave., Antioch. This event underscores the ongoing dialogue surrounding police accountability and the pursuit of justice for Angelo Quinto.

Conclusion: Continuing the Conversation

The resolution of the Angelo Quinto case through a significant settlement underscores the complexities of police conduct and mental health crisis response. It also highlights the advocacy efforts of Quinto’s family in pushing for meaningful reforms within law enforcement. As discussions continue, it’s essential to prioritize accountability, transparency, and systemic change to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

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