I-Team: In NJ, Cops Sue Own Departments More Than Civilians

Police brutality cases and false arrest lawsuits make headlines, but an investigation by WNYC Radio found that New Jersey police officers are more likely than the citizens they police to bring civil litigation against their departments.

The analysis of litigation between 2009 and 2012 found that 148 settlements between New Jersey police officers against their departments cost taxpayers $29 million. That is 45 percent more than the $20 million paid in settlements and legal fees associated with 117 lawsuits filed by civilians.