Michigan Construction Worker Wins $4 Million for Eye Injury from Police Action

Michigan Man Awarded $4 Million After Brutal Police Encounter

A Michigan construction worker, Daniel Reiff, has been awarded a significant payout of four million dollars following an incident where he lost his eye due to excessive force used by a police officer. The case raises troubling questions about police conduct and accountability in the context of law enforcement interactions with vulnerable individuals.

Understanding the Incident: A Closer Look

The unfortunate incident took place in 2021 when Reiff was reportedly en route to a freelance roofing job. A passerby called the police, deeming the behavior of Reiff and a co-worker suspicious. Upon the arrival of Officer Broc Setty from the Clinton Township Police, Reiff became frightened, potentially due to concerns about his past transgressions including unpaid child support. His instinct to run set the stage for a troubling confrontation.

The Use of Excessive Force: What Happened Next?

According to court records, when Officer Setty caught up to Reiff, the interaction escalated quickly. Reiff, complying with the officer’s commands, reportedly announced, "I’m done, I give up" as he was on the ground. Despite this, Setty punched him in the face with such force that his eye was ruptured and later had to be removed entirely. This case illustrates a severe breach of protocol and raises significant concerns over police training and decision-making.

The Legal Battle and Jury Decision: A Landmark Outcome

In December 2025, a federal jury ruled in favor of Reiff, awarding him $4 million in compensatory damages and an additional $50,000 in punitive damages against Setty. This landmark decision emphasizes that excessive use of force is intolerable, regardless of an individual's past. The verdict has been described as a powerful message that police officers must be held accountable for their actions, particularly against marginalized individuals.

How Do Past Struggles Shape Perceptions of Justice?

The defense in the case attempted to undermine Reiff's credibility by highlighting his history of substance abuse and legal issues. This approach, often termed “victim-shaming”, failed dramatically as jurors recognized the humanity and rights of Reiff, irrespective of his past. It underscores the importance of viewing individuals holistically rather than through the narrow lens of their past mistakes.

Broader Implications for Police Accountability

This case serves as a clarion call for serious reforms in policing, particularly in how officers interact with individuals who may be in vulnerable situations. The message here is clear: excessive force is not an acceptable response to non-threatening behavior. Organizations advocating for police reform are hopeful that such verdicts will lead to enhanced training and policy changes designed to mitigate such occurrences in the future.

Next Steps: What This Ultimately Means for the Community

As Clinton Township grapples with the fallout from the verdict, it remains crucial for the community to engage in discussions around law enforcement practices. Citizens, contractors, and local businesses can advocate for change by promoting accountability and supporting policies that emphasize de-escalation. This incident should serve as a rallying point for a more thoughtful approach to policing in Michigan.

For construction professionals, understanding the dynamics of safety, community interactions, and police can contribute to a safer work environment. This case further stresses the importance of having local support systems in place and being aware of your rights when engaging with law enforcement.

Ultimately, it’s not just about one man losing an eye; it’s about ensuring that such incidents are not repeated.