The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 2nd Circuit announced today the the Town of East Haven is not liable in a case brought against it by the estate of Malik Jones. 

Jones’s mother, Emma Jones, had sued the town as a result of a police-involved shooting in 1997 in which Malik Jones was killed.

In a press conference held this afternoon in Town Hall, Mayor Joseph Maturo, Jr., said he was pleased with the court’s decision.

“This decision, which stands to save the taxpayers millions of dollars, marks the end of an unhappy, costly chapter in East Haven’s history,” said Maturo. “Having served as mayor for 11 of the 15 years during which this case was litigated, I am delighted to have the privilege of announcing today’s decision.”

Town Attorney Joseph Zullo noted that the decision “is momentous for towns, police department, and attorneys across the country.”

Attorney Hugh Keefe, who represented the town in the case, explained that a pattern of discrimination had to be found in order for the town to be held liable. Keefe said the matter is likely over.

Shortly after the press conference, Emma Jones’s attorney, David Rosen, addressed the media separately. He addressed the possibility of further litigation. He said there could be an appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court, “but we haven’t decided.”

Rosen said he spoke with Emma Jones earlier today and “we are of one mind. Today is not the day to decide on the next step.”

In 2007, a U.S. District judge overturned a ruling that awarded Emma Jones $2.5 million in damages from the town.