Angel Reyes & Associates Wins Major Jury Verdict Against City of Houston, Defending the Rights of an Injured Citizen

Houston, Texas – In a resounding victory for the rights of Houston residents, Angel Reyes & Associates successfully held the City of Houston accountable for the injuries suffered by Michael Baines, a longtime Houston resident who was wrongfully accused of fabricating his pain following a police transport collision. Lead trial attorney Eric Przybysz, along with co-counsel Ryan Snow, fought tirelessly to ensure justice for their client, prevailing in a high stakes case that highlights the firm’s unwavering dedication to standing up for the people of Houston.

Taking on the City of Houston and Winning

The case stemmed from an incident on February 7, 2021, when Michael Baines discovered his wife of 17 years had tragically passed away from COVID-19 while he was out getting groceries. Overcome with grief and mental distress, Michael, who suffers from schizophrenia and other mental health condition, called 911 for help.

Responding paramedics and firefighters found Michael in an acute emotional crisis. Houston police officers were dispatched to the scene, placing him in handcuffs in the back of a patrol cruiser for transport to the Harris Center for Mental Health.

While en route, Officer Jacob Pattillo rear-ended another vehicle at a red light, causing Michael, who was fully restrained and unable to brace himself, to suffer serious neck and spinal injuries. Despite his immediate complaints of pain and request for an ambulance, Officer Pattillo dismissed his injuries, saying:

“Come on man, don’t play those games with me.”

The City of Houston’s legal team aggressively fought against Michael’s claims, arguing that he intentionally hit his head to fake injuries for financial gain even though his injuries were to his neck and spine, not his head.

Eric Przybysz & Ryan Snow Deliver Justice in Court

Over a three day trial in Harris County’s 295th Judicial District Court, Eric Przybysz and Ryan Snow exposed the City’s flawed defense, demonstrating that:

Officer Pattillo’s negligence directly caused the collision and subsequent injuries.

Medical experts confirmed Michael’s pain and suffering were real and medically documented.

The City of Houston spent four years calling an innocent man a liar instead of taking responsibility for its actions.

During the trial, Officer Pattillo admitted under oath that he never apologized to Michael and wasn’t sorry for what happened a moment that underscored the City’s complete disregard for the well-being of one of its own citizens.

After five hours of deliberation, the jury delivered a decisive victory for Michael Baines, proving that justice will always prevail when the truth is fought for with unwavering determination. The jury awarded the full amount of the past medical bills $53,215 plus $19,151 (four years’ worth of prejudgment interest) and court costs of $2,761. The total verdict amount will be $75,127.

A Commitment to Protecting Houston’s Citizens

“This case was about more than just one man’s injuries it was about holding the City of Houston accountable for its treatment of the people it’s supposed to serve,” said Eric Przybysz, lead trial attorney for Angel Reyes & Associates. “For years, they tried to discredit Michael, dismiss his pain, and avoid responsibility. Today, we proved that the people of Houston deserve better.”

Co-counsel Ryan Snow played a critical role in legal strategy and expert witness testimony, ensuring a powerful and effective case presentation. His contributions were essential to securing this landmark verdict.

About Angel Reyes & Associates

Angel Reyes & Associates is a leading personal injury law firm with offices across Texas, including Dallas, Fort Worth, Houston, and Austin. With a strong commitment to client success and over 30 years of experience, the firm specializes in car and truck accident cases, helping injury victims secure the compensation they deserve.

For more information about Angel Reyes & Associates and their team, visit https://www.reyeslaw.com/

CASE INFORMATION
295th District Court, Harris County
BAINES, MICHAEL vs. CITY OF HOUSTON
Case No. 2022-53146