FL S0030

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

Deputy Petrillo was traveling at least 20 mph over the speed limit without activating his siren or lights, ran a red light, and struck Wohlgemuth's vehicle as she lawfully entered the intersection on a green light.

Wohlgemuth sustained severe brain injuries including a subdural hematoma and subarachnoid hemorrhage requiring skull removal; she spent 3 weeks in a coma and requires 24-hour supervision due to cognitive and behavioral impairment.

A trial court awarded $9,141,267.32 in damages (March 12, 2009), later amended to $8,724,754.40; the Pasco County Sheriff's Office paid the statutory limit of $100,000, with this act covering the remaining $8,624,754.40 balance affirmed on appeal March 10, 2010.

Attorney fees, lobbying fees, costs, and similar expenses may not exceed 25 percent of the awarded amount, and this payment constitutes sole compensation for all present and future claims arising from the incident.