The wrongful death civil trial regarding the police shooting of Lindani Myeni in April 2021 is set to begin in Honolulu, Hawaii, with jury selection starting Monday, July 14, 2025 Reddit+15Hawaii Free Press+15Honolulu Civil Beat+15.
📍 Case Background
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On April 14, 2021, three Honolulu Police Department officers shot and killed Lindani Myeni, a 29-year-old unarmed Black South African, outside a vacation rental after a reported burglary call. Officers used tasers before firing live rounds during a physical altercation KHON2+3Wikipedia+3Atlanta Black Star+3.
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Myeni’s widow, Lindsay Myeni, filed a wrongful death lawsuit alleging excessive force and racial animus, claiming officers did not identify themselves and used flashlights to blind him Hawaii Public Radio+9Hawaii Public Radio+9Atlanta Black Star+9.
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Local officials—including the Honolulu City Council, Police Chief Joe Logan, and Prosecuting Attorney Steve Alm—opposed a proposed $1.5 million settlement, stating the officers acted appropriately. A council vote was postponed and eventually canceled, moving the case to a court trial Reddit+15Honolulu Civil Beat+15Honolulu Civil Beat+15.
⚖️ What Happens Next
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Jury selection begins July 14, 2025, in Honolulu.
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The trial is expected to span 3–5 weeks based on the scheduling conference Honolulu Civil Beat.
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Defendants include the City and County of Honolulu and the involved HPD officers, represented by the city’s Corporation Counsel.
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The plaintiff, Lindsay Myeni, is pursuing damages on behalf of her late husband and their two young children.
🔍 Key Legal Issues
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Did officers properly identify themselves before shooting?
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Was the use of lethal force justified under state law?
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Were officers motivated by racial bias, as alleged?
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Will the court determine liability and potential damages without a prior settlement?
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