Alabama Reaches Settlement with Late Deputy Brad Johnson's Estate
The state of Alabama has agreed to pay a $1 million settlement to the family of Bibb County Deputy Brad Johnson, who was killed in the line of duty. The settlement addresses allegations surrounding the circumstances that led to Johnson's death and highlights flaws in Alabama's correctional incentive "good time" laws. The suspect, Austin Patrick Hall, had a history of criminal charges and was released early from a 10-year prison sentence. The settlement comes after the passage of the Deputy Brad Johnson Act, which rolled back the amount of time inmates can shave off their sentences for good behavior. Hall faces capital murder charges and could potentially face the death penalty or life imprisonment without parole if convicted.