FL H3535

Appropriates $8,624,754.40 to Jennifer Wohlgemuth from the Pasco County Sheriff's Office as compensation for injuries sustained in a January 3, 2005 vehicle collision caused by Deputy Kenneth Petrillo's negligence.

Deputy Petrillo ran a red light at excessive speed without activating his siren or lights while pursuing a suspect, striking Wohlgemuth's vehicle and causing severe brain injuries including subdural hematoma and subarachnoid hemorrhage requiring skull removal.

Trial court awarded total damages of $9,141,267.32 on March 12, 2009, with Deputy Petrillo found 95 percent responsible; final judgment of $8,724,754.40 was affirmed on appeal March 10, 2010.

Pasco County Sheriff's Office previously paid the statutory limit of $100,000 under Florida law; this act authorizes payment of the remaining unpaid judgment amount.

Limits attorney fees, lobbying fees, and related costs to a maximum of 25 percent of the amount awarded, with this payment constituting sole compensation for all present and future claims arising from the incident.