$7M San Antonio Civil Rights Verdict Named Among Texas’ Top 50 Verdicts of 2024

A $7 million jury verdict on behalf of a San Antonio man who was beaten by police in a case of mistaken identity has been recognized among the Top 50 Texas Verdicts of 2024. 

We extend our sincere congratulations to the trial team of Philip G. Bernal, Daniel O. Kustoff, Melanie H. Sanders, and Taylor Lynn Crull, whose commitment and skill were instrumental in holding those responsible accountable and securing justice for Rogelio “Roger” Carlos III. Durham, Pittard & Spalding attorney Thad Spalding was honored to support the case in an appellate role, assisting with litigation strategy and error preservation before and during trial. 

Jurors in U.S. District Judge Fred Biery’s courtroom heard testimony detailing how Mr. Carlos was photographing a construction site on family property in May 2014 when San Antonio officers mistook him for a suspect and assaulted him. The incident resulted in injuries to Mr. Carlos’s neck that required a spinal surgery that left Mr. Carlos paralyzed and dependent on a wheelchair. 

The trial team secured a liability verdict in a trial in April 2024—nearly the 10-year anniversary of the incident—paving the way for a separate jury to focus solely on damages during the November 2024 trial. 

“This case is a reminder of the difference a strong, collaborative trial team can make,” said Mr.  Spalding. “We’re proud to represent Mr. Carlos and support an outstanding trial team throughout the unique, two-phase trial of this case and beyond.” 

The case is Carlos v. Chavez, No. 5:16-cv-00251, in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas – San Antonio Division.  Judge Biery signed a Final Judgment in this case in January 2025 that, with prejudgment interest, totals $9.5 million.