The city of Bakersfield, California, has agreed to a record $22 million settlement in a wrongful death lawsuit stemming from a 2023 crash caused by a former police officer speeding through an intersection at 80 mph. The incident resulted in the death of 31-year-old Mario Lares and severe injuries to passenger Ana Hernandez.
The Crash and Its Aftermath
On January 2023, at approximately 2:21 a.m., then-Officer Ricardo Robles ran a stop sign at the intersection of South Vineland and Muller Roads. Court records show Robles was traveling at nearly 80 mph without activating emergency lights or a siren, despite departmental policy requiring both during emergency responses.
The officer’s patrol vehicle collided with a 2013 Honda Accord carrying Lares and Hernandez. The impact forced the Honda off the road, resulting in Lares’ death from sustained injuries. Hernandez survived but suffered severe head and back injuries, requiring extensive medical treatment and ongoing physical therapy.
Legal Proceedings and Officer’s Sentence
After three years of litigation, attorneys for both Hernandez and Lares’ family accepted a $22 million settlement from the city on February 23rd. Robles pleaded no contest to vehicular manslaughter in 2024, receiving a sentence of two years probation, 500 hours of community service, and one day in jail. He also lost his job and police certification.
Why This Matters
This case highlights critical issues around police accountability and the application of legal standards. According to Daniel Rodriguez, founder of Rodriguez & Associates, the settlement represents a record payout by the city, emphasizing violations of basic safety protocols. The disparity in justice—where civilians would likely face harsher penalties for similar negligence—raises uncomfortable questions about fairness within the legal system.
“If it would have been one of us,” Rodriguez said, referring to a civilian driver, “I don’t think anyone ever could be out of custody.”
The incident underscores the need for rigorous oversight of high-speed pursuits and the consistent enforcement of safety procedures, regardless of the officer’s position. The case serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences when law enforcement fails to adhere to established protocols, leading to tragic loss of life and lasting harm to victims.
The $22 million settlement is not just financial compensation; it’s a consequence of systemic failures and a call for greater accountability in policing practices.
