Family claims Chattanooga police negligence caused woman's murder in $5 million lawsuit

From Local 3 News: The family of Kara Akins, who was murdered nearly a year ago, has filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the city of Chattanooga, the Chattanooga Police Department, and her ex-boyfriend, former CPD officer Lawrence Goodine.

The lawsuit, which demands $5 million in damages, alleges that the police department failed to act on multiple complaints from Akins about Goodine’s harassment, ultimately leading to her death.

Akins' family argues that if Goodine had been arrested for violating a no-contact order, she would still be alive.

Mike Richardson, the family's attorney, stated that they are seeking justice and accountability for the loss of a loved one.

Akins was granted a no-contact order against Goodine on October 3, 2023, after multiple reports of harassment.

Just six weeks before her death, she called police to report that Goodine had broken into her home and assaulted her.

Richardson says Akins’ complaints were not taken seriously by law enforcement because Goodine was a former officer.

"Ms. Akins believed Goodine was receiving preferential treatment due to his ties with the police department," said Richardson. "We intend to prove that in court."

The lawsuit also highlights concerns over the lack of response to Akins’ repeated calls to the police department.

Richardson noted that Akins’ phone records and 911 call logs have not been released to the family, despite requests. Additionally, he said the Chattanooga Police Department confiscated Akins’ cell phone after her death and has refused to release it.

As of now, Goodine has been charged with first-degree murder in connection with Akins’ death in November 2023.

He is scheduled to appear in court on December 4. Akins' family hopes that a trial date will be set at that time.

The case has raised questions about law enforcement's handling of domestic violence complaints, particularly when one of their own is involved.

Akins' family is determined to bring attention to these issues and seek justice for her death.