Montgomery County settles $7M lawsuit after 25-year-old Christian Black died during restraint at jail.

Montgomery County has settled a $7 million lawsuit with the family of Christian Black, a 25-year-old man who died in March after being restrained by multiple officers and medical staff at the county jail. Black, arrested on suspicion of carjacking, was subdued with pepper spray, tasers, a restraining chair, and a spit hood, while being bent over and pressured on his neck. Video and witness accounts show officers applied significant weight to his back and neck, and medical staff delayed lifesaving care. He was declared dead from mechanical and positional asphyxia, with the coroner ruling his death a homicide. While officers remain on paid administrative leave, no criminal charges have been filed. The settlement is the largest in county history. In response, county commissioners have pledged over $6.6 million for jail upgrades, including a revamped intake area, with completion expected by mid-2027. The family and advocates continue calling for systemic jail reform.