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On August 25, a federal jury in Los Angeles awarded $16 million in damages to Sarah Johnson after determining that the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department (LASD) and Fire Department (LAFD) disseminated photos of the remains of her loved ones from the tragic January 2020 helicopter crash. This devastating incident claimed the lives of Sarah’s husband, Michael Johnson, their daughter Lily, and seven others. Her co-plaintiff, David Smith, who lost his wife and daughter in the crash, received $15 million, bringing the total settlement to $31 million.
Sarah’s legal struggle against LASD has been profoundly emotional. In October 2021, Los Angeles County requested that she and other family members undergo psychiatric evaluations to “prove” their emotional distress from the shared crash photos. Dr. Emily Roberts, a psychiatrist and PTSD expert currently serving as the Medical Director for Trauma Recovery at the VA Palo Alto Healthcare System, shared insights on how trauma triggers function. “Triggers are highly individualistic, shaped by the unique circumstances and their impact on the person’s mind,” Dr. Roberts explained. Just because something may not seem triggering to outsiders doesn’t mean it doesn’t adversely affect the individual dealing with PTSD.
During her testimony in August, Sarah disclosed her fear of the photos resurfacing online, stating, “I live in constant fear of my daughters encountering these images on social media.” She vividly recalled her emotional turmoil upon learning that photos were being circulated, expressing a desire to “run down the block and scream,” and describing the feeling of being unable to escape her predicament.
The phenomenon of re-victimization and re-traumatization is prevalent among PTSD sufferers, particularly those attempting to navigate the legal system while healing. “Re-traumatization is well-documented,” Dr. Roberts noted. “Survivors of trauma often find themselves facing further victimization within the judicial process, revisiting their trauma in court.” She likened the experience to someone with a broken leg being kicked right after surgery. Sarah remembered pleading with Sheriff Alex Villanueva to secure the crash site and prevent any photography, a request he assured her would be honored.
However, as many as eight emergency responders, including LASD deputies and LAFD firefighters, took photos of the crash scene. Sarah learned about the leaked images through a Los Angeles Times article, resulting in an overwhelming sense of betrayal. “I expected compassion and respect,” she stated. “My husband and daughter deserved dignity.”
One of the deputies involved, Tom Harris, was reportedly relieved of his duties, but footage later surfaced, indicating he remained with the department. During the trial, Sheriff Villanueva suggested that the potential deletion of the photos could prevent disciplinary actions, yet evidence emerged showing they were not deleted, raising concerns of a cover-up.
Even if all photos were genuinely removed, triggers cannot simply be eliminated. Throughout her ordeal, Sarah faced multiple re-traumatizations at the hands of law enforcement as she sought justice. Dr. Roberts emphasized the importance of social structures and support systems in managing trauma: “Building resilience and having supportive individuals in your life can significantly mitigate the impact of triggers.”
Although the jury’s decision marked a significant step toward justice for Sarah and other victims’ families, not everyone has access to the same resources. Dr. Roberts noted that when those in power share their stories—similar to the #MeToo Movement—it can inspire others without privilege to speak out. For victims lacking such resources, establishing a strong support network is crucial.
“Research shows that immediate social support can prevent the development of PTSD following trauma,” Dr. Roberts explained. “And even if PTSD does occur, those with support typically recover more quickly.” Healing strategies will vary for individuals, whether through prayer, exercise, music, or professional help. The key is to reinforce positive practices that foster resilience.
Dr. Roberts also highlighted that anyone can aid someone experiencing PTSD, stating, “Empathy and support from those around us play a vital role in healing. You don’t need a professional degree to assist someone in distress.”
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Summary:
Sarah Johnson’s emotional journey culminated in a $16 million verdict against the LASD and LAFD after they shared photos from the helicopter crash that claimed her loved ones. Experts like Dr. Emily Roberts emphasize the complexities of PTSD, including the impact of triggers and the importance of social support in recovery. The case highlights the challenges faced by trauma survivors within the legal system and advocates for greater compassion and understanding.