Case dismissed against city in killing of unarmed man

Published: Thursday, July 31, 2025 at 10:05 am

Case Dismissed in Shooting of Unarmed Man

A civil trial concerning the 2021 death of Lindani Myeni, an unarmed Black man shot by police, concluded abruptly Tuesday with the judge dismissing the case. Judge Karin Holma sided with the city, ruling in its favor after the city filed a motion for judgment. The motion argued that the two officers involved in the shooting did not act with malice, a key element in civil cases.

The shooting occurred on April 14, 2021, with the officers firing four shots at the 29-year-old Myeni. The plaintiffs' attorneys, representing Myeni's widow, presented evidence, including body-worn camera footage. The footage reportedly showed an officer pointing a gun behind a flashlight and failing to identify himself as a police officer. The plaintiffs argued that Myeni was provoked to throw a defensive punch before being shot 16 seconds later.

The city's argument for dismissal centered on the lack of evidence demonstrating the officers acted with malice, thus granting them immunity from liability. The plaintiffs' law firm, Bickerton Law Group, expressed surprise at the ruling, stating they believed evidence supported their case. They plan to appeal the decision.

The city's Department of the Corporation Counsel had previously recommended settling the case for $1.5 million, but the City Council rejected the proposal. Honolulu Prosecutor Steve Alm stated his office's independent investigation concluded the officers acted professionally and appropriately, with no evidence of racism. Mayor Rick Blangiardi also expressed satisfaction with the court's decision, extending condolences to the Myeni family.

BNN's Perspective: While the legal system has spoken, the dismissal of this case leaves a lingering sense of unease. The details surrounding the shooting, particularly the officers' actions before the use of force, raise questions about police conduct and accountability. It is crucial to balance the need to protect officers with the need to ensure justice and transparency in cases involving the use of deadly force.

Keywords: Lindani Myeni, police shooting, wrongful death, civil trial, case dismissed, police brutality, officer immunity, body camera footage, malice, legal decision, unarmed man, police conduct, Steve Alm, Rick Blangiardi, Bickerton Law Group

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