CARMEL – Putnam County Government has settled a federal lawsuit filed by Anthony DiPippo, the man who was convicted twice of a brutal murder, but later acquitted in a third trial.
DiPippo and the county just settled for $12 million with the county responsible for only $200,000 with the county’s insurance paying the lion’s share.
“This was one of the most difficult decisions I’ve had to make as a county executive, particularly given the circumstances of the crime and in light of the economic collapse we’re facing due to COVID-19,” said County Executive MaryEllen Odell. She said, however, that she is supporting the settlement “to protect the taxpayers by capping the amount that we would be required to pay at $200,000.”
DiPippo was convicted in two separate trials of raping and murdering 12-year-old Josette Wright, but he was acquitted during a third trial in October 2016. As a result, the county was exposed to liability for federal civil rights violations, including wrongful conviction and due process claims.
DiPippo had served 20 years in prison before he was found not guilty of murder.
