Two officers accused of excessive force in death of Alabama man reach settlement with family

A federal lawsuit involving the 2021 death of a west Alabama man has reached a partial resolution. Family members of Michael Broady have secured settlements with two police officers who were named in a legal action alleging the use of excessive force during a fatal arrest.

The Legal Path Forward

The lawsuit, which stems from a violent encounter that turned deadly after Broady called police for help, initially named multiple officers across Pickens County. According to a joint status report filed in May, settlements have been finalized with Austin Moss of the Gordo Police Department and Kallenna Homan of the Reform Police Department.

Meanwhile, legal proceedings continue for Pickens County deputies Brian Herd and Taylor Gregory. Those two officers are scheduled to participate in a mediation hearing on July 30. J. Randall McNeill, the attorney representing Herd and Gregory, noted that his clients maintain they did not act improperly, stating that participation in mediation should not be viewed as an admission of wrongdoing.

Seeking Accountability

Attorney Johnathan Austin, who represents the Broady family alongside Birmingham lawyer Richard Rice, described the settlement as a critical step toward securing answers. "This is just one step closer to getting justice and answers for the family that we represent," Austin told 205focus.com. "Now we know what happened to him and now we’re seeking justice."

Magistrate Judge Gray M. Borden has directed both sides to submit confidential summaries detailing the background of the dispute, claim values, and the status of ongoing negotiations.

Context of the 2021 Incident

Documented through police video, the situation began when Broady, who lived in Lamar County, contacted authorities to report that he had been threatened at a residence. During the initial interaction, Broady spoke calmly with officers while admitting he was under the influence of methamphetamine. The situation escalated after officers realized he had an outstanding warrant for unpaid child support.

The video captured officers laughing before the atmosphere turned volatile as Broady attempted to flee. He was subsequently struck with a stun gun multiple times and tackled. The lawsuit claims that Moss used a flashlight to strike Broady while he was handcuffed and on the ground, and alleges that the flashlight was also used as a choking device against his neck. As the encounter ended, the video shows officers transporting a non-responsive Broady to the station, where they attempted CPR before he was taken to a hospital and pronounced dead.

Reflecting on the loss, the family remembers Broady for his humor and his passion for baseball, particularly his support for the New York Yankees, even while acknowledging his struggles with substance abuse. "We know there’s no amount of money that’s going to bring this loved one back but at least we can hold them accountable," Austin said.