DETROIT, MI – In a landmark ruling, a federal jury awarded Sean McMaster, a former police lieutenant, more than $58 million in damages following a wrongful prosecution that nearly cost him his freedom and family.
McMaster’s ordeal began in 2019 when he was accused of sexually assaulting his young daughter in Michigan, a charge he vehemently denied. The allegations surfaced as part of a bitter custody dispute with his ex-wife, Johanna McMaster. The case, which was initially brought forth by Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, was dropped after 7 Investigators uncovered substantial doubts about the prosecution’s integrity.
During the investigation, multiple agencies, including the FBI and Homeland Security, cleared McMaster of any wrongdoing. Despite this, he was held in solitary confinement for 151 days, an experience his lawyers argue was a result of malicious prosecution by former Assistant Attorney General Brian Kolojay and Michigan State Police Trooper David Abuse.
The jury’s decision to award McMaster $58.4 million highlights the egregious nature of the prosecution’s actions, which his legal team claims were driven by personal motives. Kolojay was accused of launching the investigation to impress a girlfriend connected to McMaster’s ex-wife. Kolojay resigned in 2019 amid unrelated misconduct allegations.
McMaster’s attorneys argued that the wrongful prosecution violated his constitutional rights and inflicted severe emotional and financial harm. The jury’s award includes compensatory and punitive damages, recognizing the profound impact on McMaster’s life.
Despite the victory, McMaster faces ongoing challenges. The allegations have disrupted his relationship with his daughter and affected his career prospects. As part of a separate settlement, Johanna McMaster agreed to pay $1 million for her role in the false accusations.
“This award is a step toward justice,” McMaster said, expressing a desire for normalcy. “But the damage is done. I’d trade everything to have my family back.”
The Michigan State Police and Kolojay have yet to comment on the jury’s decision. McMaster continues to navigate the repercussions of the case, hopeful that the verdict will prevent similar injustices in the future.
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Author: John Nightbridge
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