What are punitive damages and what do they mean for officers?

• A. Damages intended to punish misconduct but do not affect officer liability.
• B. Damages that are paid by the department's insurer only.
• C. Damages intended to punish and deter misconduct, and officers can be held personally liable.
• D. Damages that apply only in administrative reviews.

Answer: (C)

Punitive damages are meant to punish a defendant for especially wrongful conduct and to deter others from similar misconduct. In police misconduct cases this can mean the officer faces serious liability personally—the damages can be awarded against the officer as an individual when their actions show malice or a reckless disregard for rights. This goes beyond simply compensating a victim and isn’t limited to the department’s insurer or to internal reviews. The key takeaway is that punitive damages serve to punish and deter, and officers can be held personally liable when the conduct warrants it.