This bill provides for the financial relief of Sean Hurley, who sustained severe injuries due to the negligence of the Orange County Sheriff's Office. The bill acknowledges the facts surrounding the incident, which occurred on November 15, 2019, when Deputy Sheriff Nicholas Orrizzi collided with Mr. Hurley's motorcycle, resulting in catastrophic injuries that required extensive medical treatment and surgeries. A jury found Deputy Orrizzi to be 100% negligent and awarded Mr. Hurley $20,839,757 in damages, which was subsequently reduced to $20,721,629.23 due to collateral sources covering some of his medical expenses.
The bill authorizes the Orange County Sheriff's Office to appropriate the reduced amount as compensation for Mr. Hurley's injuries and damages. It also stipulates that the total amount paid for attorney fees related to this claim cannot exceed 25% of the total awarded amount. The act is set to take effect upon becoming law, ensuring that Mr. Hurley receives the necessary financial support for his ongoing medical needs resulting from the incident.