Albuquerque officials announced a $950,000 settlement with Todd Perchet and his wife after a 2024 traffic collision involving then‑Albuquerque Police Chief Harold Medina. The crash occurred when Chief Medina ran a red light while operating an unmarked police vehicle, striking Perchet’s Mustang.
Injuries and settlement details
Perchet suffered severe injuries, including eight broken ribs, a collapsed lung, a broken collarbone, and a fractured shoulder blade. His attorney, James Tawney, said the settlement includes $122,000 earmarked for hospital bills, with the remainder covering other damages.
“No, he’ll never be made whole. This is a partial reimbursement for what was taken from him,” Tawney told KOAT reporter John Rupolo. The agreement does not provide for future medical expenses, and Tawney warned that Perchet will likely require ongoing care.
State law caps recovery
New Mexico’s Tort Claims Act caps compensation for injury or death claims against government entities at $750,000. Because Perchet’s wife filed a loss‑of‑consortium claim, the city added $200,000 above the statutory cap, bringing the total to $950,000.
Legal expert John Day explained the purpose of the cap: “County governments and municipalities argue they need to retain sufficient resources to perform their functions. If caps are too large, it could be devastating to them.”
Community impact
The settlement underscores the challenges victims face when seeking full restitution from government bodies. While the payment provides significant relief, the lack of coverage for future medical costs highlights the limitations imposed by the Tort Claims Act.
Local residents and advocacy groups have expressed concern that the cap may leave seriously injured citizens without adequate compensation for long‑term care. The city has not indicated any immediate changes to the law, but the case may prompt further discussion among policymakers about balancing fiscal responsibility with victims’ rights.
Next steps
Perchet’s legal team will continue to monitor his medical needs and explore any additional avenues for support. City officials reaffirmed their commitment to transparency and to reviewing policies that affect public safety and accountability.
Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.
