Guven Uzun vs. City of Santa Monica, a government entity, et al.

Case Background

On January 17, 2023, Guven Uzen filed a personal injury lawsuit against the Santa Monica Police Officers alleging negligence and excess use of force before the California Superior Court, Los Angeles County. Judge Mark A. Young presided over this case. [Case number: 23SMCV00234]

Cause

Plaintiff Guven Uzun, age 55, faced an incident on June 7, 2019, around 12:23 a.m. Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) Officer Valenzuela was dispatched to Santa Monica Hospital regarding a report of child abuse at Uzun's residence. The report alleged that Uzun pulled his daughter's hair and struck her in the face, but hospital staff observed no visible injuries. During her deposition, Uzun's daughter denied these claims. Officer Valenzuela noted no visible injuries and did not consult any physician about Uzun's daughter or wife. Uzun, a well-respected physician with no prior criminal record, had lived in Santa Monica for 11 years without incidents. His wife could have gone to an urgent care facility, but instead, SMPD Officers Valenzuela, Raleigh, King, and Sergeants Gilmour and Chun arrived at Uzun’s home. The police video showed them waiting outside with Uzun’s wife while his children remained inside, contrary to department policy. At around 1:00 a.m