City of Batavia sues over injured police officer

The city of Batavia is suing a driver for more than $50,000 after a police officer was injured and his squad car damaged two years ago.

City officials allege that Charles W. Ryan was negligent when he struck a police car around noon on Aug. 18, 2005, at Route 31 and Sycamore.

The crash, the lawsuit states, damaged the front end of the patrol car and injured Batavia Police Officer Michael S. Walters, who was responding to a call.

Walters was injured and required medical, surgical and hospital care, along with permanent injuries. The city also had to pay Walters workers' compensation, the suit states.

Ryan could not be reached for comment and it was unknown where he lives and whether he hired an attorney.

Robert Newman, a Chicago attorney in charge of the case on behalf of Batavia, could not be reached for comment Thursday.

Bill McGrath, Batavia city administrator, said Walters is a 16-year veteran with the department and is presently on active duty.

The case is due in court on Oct. 29.