Ronald Greene Family Reaches Tentative $4.8M Settlement with Louisiana State Police

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This undated file photo provided by his family in September 2020 shows Ronald A. Greene.

Settlement Nears Resolution in 2019 Death Case

The family of Ronald Greene has reached a tentative $4.8 million settlement with Louisiana State Police over his 2019 death following a violent encounter with troopers.

State police confirmed Wednesday that negotiations are ongoing and declined to discuss final terms until the agreement is officially completed. Under Louisiana law, the settlement still requires approval from the state legislature.

Greene’s Death Sparked National Outrage

Greene, a 49-year-old Black motorist, died on May 10, 2019, after a high-speed police pursuit near Monroe, Louisiana.

Authorities initially told Greene’s family he died after crashing his vehicle into a tree. However, body camera footage released nearly two years later showed troopers beating, restraining and repeatedly using stun guns on Greene after the chase ended.

The footage fueled widespread criticism and renewed calls for police accountability.

This image from video from Louisiana state trooper Lt. John Clary’s body-worn camera shows trooper Kory York standing over Ronald Greene on his stomach on May 10, 2019, outside of Monroe, La.
Louisiana State Police via AP

Wrongful Death Lawsuit Filed by Family

Greene’s family filed a federal wrongful death lawsuit in May 2020, alleging excessive force and a cover-up by law enforcement.

His mother, Mona Hardin, has been a leading voice demanding justice and transparency throughout the years-long legal battle.

No Jail Time for Officers

Five Louisiana law enforcement officers were initially charged in connection with Greene’s arrest, but none will serve jail time after several charges were reduced or dismissed.

In January 2025, the U.S. Department of Justice informed Greene’s family it would not pursue federal criminal charges, closing another avenue for prosecution.

If approved, the settlement would mark a significant legal resolution in one of Louisiana’s most closely watched police misconduct cases.

For more on this story, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.