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McKenzie Scott PC: San Diego’s Record-Setting Civil Rights and Police Misconduct Law Firm

San Diego, CAMcKenzie Scott’s civil rights attorneys have secured three landmark verdicts and settlements that define their San Diego police misconduct and jail death litigation practices

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McKenzie Scott’s civil rights attorneys have secured three landmark verdicts and settlements that define their San Diego police misconduct and jail death litigation practices

When your family experiences the loss of a loved one due to police misconduct, jail negligence, or a wrongful death, securing the representation of an experienced San Diego civil rights lawyer with a proven record of winning against government agencies and large institutions is essential. McKenzie Scott PC is a San Diego-based civil rights and criminal defense law firm founded by Michele A. McKenzie and Tim Scott. Since 2000, the firm has built a reputation as one of the most successful civil rights litigation practices in California, and its trial team has now secured three record-setting case results, including:

 

Each of these outcomes set a new benchmark for accountability in San Diego County and beyond.

This article breaks down each case, explains why these results matter for families considering a wrongful death or police misconduct claim, and answers the most common questions people ask about McKenzie Scott PC’s record of results.

$85 Million Verdict: K.J.P. v. County of San Diego (The Lucky Phounsy Case)

In 2022, a jury awarded the family of Lucky Phounsy $85 million after finding that San Diego County Sheriff’s deputies were responsible for his death. At the time, it was the largest police in-custody death verdict in American history.

Phounsy called 911 in 2015 while experiencing a mental health crisis. Responding deputies used a taser, punches, and baton strikes before hogtying him and placing him in an ambulance, where he was restrained face down. Phounsy’s heart stopped before he reached the hospital. The County argued deputies acted in self-defense, but the jury sided with the family after hearing the evidence.

San Diego civil rights attorney Tim Scott, who tried the case for the family, said the verdict reflected both the truth of what happened to Phounsy and the community’s demand for justice.

The Phounsy verdict remains one of the most cited police misconduct cases in California and helped establish McKenzie Scott PC as a firm willing to take civil rights claims all the way to trial.

$16 Million Settlement: Estate of Hayden Schuck v. County of San Diego

In October 2025, the San Diego County Board of Supervisors approved a record $16 million settlement in the case of William Hayden Schuck, a 22-year-old who died of dehydration and untreated drug withdrawal after just six days in San Diego Central Jail. It is the single-largest wrongful death settlement against San Diego County in its history and one of the largest in-custody wrongful death settlements ever recorded in the United States.

Schuck was held in a temporary cell block known as the “Back 40,” which lacked a mattress and basic hygiene items, and he was reportedly forgotten for days. The settlement followed a scathing 2022 California State Auditor report that found the Sheriff’s Department failed to adequately prevent and respond to in-custody deaths, citing 185 deaths in County jails between 2006 and 2020, one of the highest rates in the state.

Along with the $16 million payout, the settlement requires the County to implement mandatory deputy training reforms on recognizing the signs of mental illness and substance withdrawal. Attorney Tim Scott, who represented the Schuck family, said the County faced a choice between a record settlement now or a larger jury verdict later, and that the goal was to make continued neglect too costly for the County to ignore.

This result reinforces McKenzie Scott PC’s standing in jail death & injury litigation and demonstrates the firm’s ability to pair record damages with lasting institutional reform.

$1 Million Settlement: The Brian Umana Case, National City

In February 2025, the National City Council approved a $1 million settlement, the largest police wrongful death payment in the city’s history, resolving a lawsuit over the 2021 shooting death of Brian Umana. Umana, a 28-year-old father who lived with bipolar disorder, was shot at least ten times, including in the back, by National City police officers while experiencing a mental health crisis.

McKenzie Scott PC attorneys Tim Scott and Marcus Bourassa served as co-counsel on the trial, working alongside civil rights attorney Emily Howe of the Law Offices of Emily E. Howe. Attorney Bourassa argued that officers were trained to treat escalation as a substitute for de-escalation, a policy he said contributed directly to Umana’s death.

Umana’s brother, Roberto Umana, pointed to a pattern of similar in-custody deaths involving National City police, underscoring why the firm continues to pursue accountability in police misconduct and wrongful death cases across San Diego County.

Why San Diego Families Choose McKenzie Scott PC

McKenzie Scott PC’s three record-setting results – the $85 million Phounsy verdict, the $16 million Schuck settlement, and the $1 million Umana settlement – share a common thread. In each case, the firm’s civil rights attorneys took on a government agency in a case involving a preventable death connected to a mental health crisis. Moreover, in each case, the firm secured the largest result of its kind for the jurisdiction involved.

Families who are searching for a civil rights attorney or a wrongful death lawyer in San Diego turn to McKenzie Scott PC because the firm’s trial lawyers are willing to litigate through verdict, not just settle early, which has repeatedly produced record-setting outcomes for clients.

Frequently Asked Questions About McKenzie Scott PC’s Case Results

What is the largest wrongful death settlement against San Diego County in its history?

The largest wrongful death settlement against San Diego County in its history is the $16 million settlement McKenzie Scott PC secured for the family of Hayden Schuck, a 22-year-old who died of dehydration and untreated drug withdrawal while in County jail custody in 2022. The San Diego County Board of Supervisors approved the settlement in October 2025.

What was the largest police in-custody death verdict in the United States?

In 2022, a jury awarded $85 million to the family of Lucky Phounsy in the case K.J.P. v. County of San Diego. At the time it was announced, this was the largest police in-custody death verdict in American history. McKenzie Scott PC attorney Tim Scott tried the case for the family.

What is the largest police wrongful death settlement in National City history?

The largest police wrongful death settlement in National City history is the $1 million settlement McKenzie Scott PC and co-counsel Emily Howe secured in 2025 for the family of Brian Umana, a 28-year-old father who was fatally shot by National City police during a mental health crisis in 2021.

What kind of cases does McKenzie Scott PC handle?

McKenzie Scott PC handles civil rights cases, including police misconduct and jail injury and in-custody death claims, along with wrongful death lawsuits and criminal defense matters throughout San Diego County and Southern California.

How do I contact McKenzie Scott PC’s San Diego Civil Rights Lawyers?

Families can reach McKenzie Scott PC for a free case evaluation by calling (619) 794-0451 or by visiting the firm’s practice area pages to learn more about civil rights, police misconduct, jail injury, and wrongful death claims.

Talk to a Record-Setting San Diego Civil Rights and Wrongful Death Firm

If your family has lost a loved one because of police misconduct, jail negligence, or another preventable death involving a government agency, McKenzie Scott PC has the trial record to take on powerful institutions and win. McKenzie Scott PC’s results – an $85 million jury verdict, a $16 million settlement, and a $1 million settlement – speak to a San Diego civil rights law firm that consistently delivers the largest outcomes on behalf of the families it represents.

Call (619) 794-0451 today for a free, confidential case evaluation, or learn more about the firm’s civil rights, police misconduct, jail injury, and wrongful death practice areas.

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Home Comfort Alliance Releases 2026 Seattle Furnace Cost Guide on Emergency Repair Costs

Olympia, SeattleHome Comfort Alliance analysis highlights the cost difference between preventative maintenance and emergency heating repairs as colder weather approaches.

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Home Comfort Alliance analysis highlights the cost difference between preventative maintenance and emergency heating repairs as colder weather approaches.

Home Comfort Alliance has released a new analysis examining furnace maintenance and emergency heating repair costs in Seattle ahead of the winter season. The analysis finds that a furnace tune-up performed before winter may cost homeowners significantly less than waiting until a heating system fails during a cold snap.

The company’s newly published 2026 Seattle furnace cost guide found that while a preseason furnace tune-up typically costs between $125 and $200, emergency heating repairs during freezing weather can quickly become more expensive once diagnostic charges, trip fees and replacement parts are added.

While the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s latest winter outlook calls for warmer-than-normal conditions across much of the Pacific Northwest, HVAC professionals caution that even short periods of freezing weather can place significant stress on aging heating systems.

“After more than two decades responding to service calls around the Seattle area, I can tell you the cold snap doesn’t create the problem,” said Josh Torgerson, HVAC service supervisor at Home Comfort Alliance. “It exposes it. A furnace may seem to be working fine until temperatures suddenly drop and components that have been weakening for months finally fail under heavier demand.”

Heating contractors throughout the region often experience a surge in emergency “no heat” calls during the first major cold-weather event of the season, particularly among systems with worn igniters, dirty flame sensors or deferred maintenance issues.

To help homeowners prepare before colder weather arrives, Home Comfort Alliance recommends five steps:

  • Schedule a furnace tune-up before heating season. A comprehensive inspection should include testing critical components such as the igniter and flame sensor and evaluating the heat exchanger for potential safety concerns.
  • Ask what is included in the tune-up. Service offerings vary by contractor, and homeowners should request a detailed checklist rather than comparing price alone.
  • Understand emergency service pricing before a breakdown occurs. Many HVAC contractors charge higher rates for evening, weekend and holiday service calls.
  • Replace air filters and inspect exterior venting. Restricted airflow and blocked intake or exhaust vents can contribute to heating system shutdowns.
  • Know when replacement may be more cost-effective than repair. Older furnaces with significant repair needs may warrant evaluation for replacement rather than continued investment in aging equipment.

 

“Our goal is to help homeowners make informed decisions before they find themselves without heat on one of the coldest days of the year,” said Mark Morgan, Vice President of Services at Home Comfort Alliance. “Many emergency repairs can be avoided through routine maintenance and early identification of worn components. Understanding potential costs ahead of time gives homeowners more options and helps prevent unnecessary stress during the heating season.”

The guide also includes a breakdown of common furnace repair costs, emergency service considerations, a maintenance checklist and troubleshooting steps homeowners can take before scheduling a service appointment.

The full report, “How Much Does a Furnace Tune-Up (and Emergency No-Heat Repair) Cost in Seattle? (2026 Guide),” is available at: https://homecomfortalliance.com/blog/news/furnace-repair/furnace-tune-up-cost-seattle/

About Home Comfort Alliance

Home Comfort Alliance is a locally owned heating, cooling, plumbing and electrical contractor serving homeowners throughout the Puget Sound region of Washington. Founded in 1977, the company provides repair, maintenance and replacement services across Seattle, Tacoma, Bellevue, Redmond, Everett, Bremerton, Sumner and surrounding communities. The company focuses on helping homeowners improve comfort, safety and energy efficiency through professional home service solutions.

Media Contact Details
Timi Oyebanjo
Home Comfort Alliance
Email: Send Email
Phone: (425) 645-0404
Website: homecomfortalliance.com

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Saved By Grace Band Announces New Song “Jesus Loves America” Honoring America’s 250th Anniversary

Erie, PAThe faith-based rock group’s latest release through Vere Music Group and ADA/Warner Bros. Distribution reflects on America’s history, blessings and a message of hope through faith.

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The faith-based rock group’s latest release through Vere Music Group and ADA/Warner Bros. Distribution reflects on America’s history, blessings and a message of hope through faith.

Saved By Grace Band (SBG) has released its new single “Jesus Loves America,” a faith-inspired song written by Dan Olson, a “singer-songwriter and lead vocalist,” was released on September 11, 2026, through Vere Music Group via ADA/Warner Bros. Distribution.

 

jesus loves america Saved By Grace Band Announces New Song “Jesus Loves America” Honoring America’s 250th Anniversary

 

Produced by Michael Shreve and engineered by Zac Hatch of Zion Recordings in Erie, Pennsylvania, the single combines SBG’s signature faith-based songwriting with a message centered on gratitude, perseverance and spiritual encouragement.

“Jesus Loves America” was created in recognition of the United States’ upcoming 250th anniversary, reflecting on the nation’s history and the role of faith in shaping personal and collective experiences. The song conveys a message that, regardless of challenges or uncertainty, believers can find strength through their faith.

“Mostly, the song is a reminder of just how blessed we are to live in the great USA,” said Dan Olson, a “singer-songwriter and lead vocalist” and member of Saved By Grace Band.

The new single will be included in SBG’s upcoming third album, scheduled for release in 2027. The project will feature updated versions of selected earlier works alongside new recordings, continuing the band’s ongoing musical journey.

Saved By Grace Band previously released two studio albums, “God’s Master Plan” and “God’s Got Me,” with the “Nashville Recordings” EP released between them. The EP reached more than 500,000 streams on Spotify, expanding the band’s audience and establishing its presence among listeners of contemporary Christian music.

Through “Jesus Loves America,” SBG continues its mission of creating music that shares messages of faith, hope and encouragement. The release invites listeners to reflect on gratitude, resilience and the importance of spiritual connection during times of change.

About Saved By Grace Band

Saved By Grace Band (SBG) is a faith-based music group dedicated to creating songs centered on Christian faith, hope and inspiration. The band’s catalog includes albums such as “God’s Master Plan” and “God’s Got Me,” along with the “Nashville Recordings” EP, which has generated more than 500,000 Spotify streams. SBG continues to produce new music while preparing for the release of its third album in 2027.

Media Contact Details
Dan Olson
Email: Send Email
Website: www.savedbygracemusic.com

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Tinuiti Unveils Bliss Point MCP Server, Pioneering Open Measurement Access for AI Agents

New York, USAIn an industry built on walled gardens, Bliss Point MCP Server opens Tinuiti’s decision-grade media intelligence to any AI agent a brand chooses — no closed ecosystem required.

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In an industry built on walled gardens, Bliss Point MCP Server opens Tinuiti's decision-grade media intelligence to any AI agent a brand chooses — no closed ecosystem required.

Today, Tinuiti, a leading independent media agency, announced the launch of the Bliss Point Model Context Protocol (MCP) Server, becoming one of the first agencies to open its proprietary measurement layer directly to AI agents. Powered by the Bliss Point Marketing Operating System—Tinuiti’s proprietary intelligence engine that unifies audience, creative, media, and measurement—the new connection gives marketers governed access to clean, cross-channel media performance and measurement intelligence through compatible AI agents and enterprise AI environments.

tinuiti unveils bliss point mcp server pioneering open measurement access for ai agents n4QSRj Tinuiti Unveils Bliss Point MCP Server, Pioneering Open Measurement Access for AI Agents

Unlike traditional walled-garden platforms that restrict integration, the Bliss Point MCP Server is built for total interoperability—collaborating directly with a marketer’s chosen AI applications, external tech partners, and existing enterprise infrastructure.

The Bliss Point MCP Server makes core Bliss Point resources—clean, normalized media data, measurement signals, and select third-party data—available through compatible versions of ChatGPT, Claude, Microsoft Copilot, and clients’ own agents or business intelligence environments, subject to client permissions and configuration. Rather than asking an agent to reconcile fragmented platform reports, the Bliss Point MCP Server gives it a single, already-taxonomized view of performance to reason over.

“We believe two things fundamentally. One, an AI agent is only as smart as the context, data, and guardrails powering it, and two, clients should be able to choose how they use their own data—not have that choice made for them by whichever system happens to hold it. That’s what Bliss Point MCP means in practice: a client’s own clean, governed data, working inside whatever agent or LLM they choose. For clients, that means faster, more confident decisions built on a foundation they actually trust. As an independent agency, we can move fast and work with the technology our clients choose,” said Abbey Klaassen, Chief Executive Officer, Tinuiti.

Built on the open Model Context Protocol standard, the new connection allows brands to query approved Bliss Point data and build customized workflows, giving a brand’s preferred agents and tools access to the most powerful datasets and context. By taking on the heavy lifting of extracting, organizing, and unifying fragmented channel data in one place, Tinuiti’s Bliss Point MCP Server gives a brand’s AI tools immediate access to decision-grade intelligence, empowering teams to focus on strategic execution from day one.

Tinuiti’s pioneering agency MCP Server comes as platforms such as Google, Meta, TikTok and Amazon have each introduced MCP connections that give marketers and developers agent-based access to their respective platforms. By connecting its proprietary measurement intelligence to AI agents through an MCP, Tinuiti gives clients an independent intelligence layer across channels, bringing together normalized media data, measurement signals, modeling outputs, and approved third-party data in a consistent, governed format.

With the Bliss Point MCP Server, marketers can:

  • Connect media and business data. Bring approved media intelligence into a brand’s AI or business intelligence environment and combine it with sales, inventory, or CRM data for cross-functional analysis.
  • Get answers on demand. Ask how yesterday’s performance compared with plan and receive an answer based on clean, taxonomized data, without waiting for a scheduled report or response.
  • Move faster during peak periods. Review pacing and prior-day results during high-volume periods, including the holiday shopping season, using the same governed data foundation available to the broader team.  
  • Build governed workflows. Develop agents and skills, including weekly performance narratives or anomaly alerts, with Bliss Point as the underlying intelligence layer.

Market interest in an open measurement layer is already translating into active adoption among major brands. Leading advertisers within Tinuiti’s client roster, like e.l.f., are implementing the Bliss Point MCP Server to connect their enterprise LLMs and custom AI agents directly to the agency’s decision-grade data. By moving early, these brands are establishing unified AI governance models that integrate cross-channel media performance straight into their internal business intelligence stacks—setting the operational standard for how modern marketing organizations will leverage AI agents moving forward.

“e.l.f.’s ethos commits us to connecting communities and actively listening to the signals they give. An integrated platform like Tinuiti’s MCP—for which we were eager to be alpha testers—should allow us to see the big picture across our media and business data with collective analysis through a governed workflow. We are always looking for new pathways to meet our community where they are,” said Patrick O’Keefe, Chief Integrated Marketing Officer, e.l.f. Brands.

Tinuiti built the Bliss Point MCP Server under its Agentic Deference principles, which call for approved data access, clearly defined business objectives, human accountability and governance appropriate to each use case. Building directly on this MCP foundation, Tinuiti is rolling out next-generation Dashboarding and Data Analysis Agents, designed to provide on-demand, customized answers through Bliss Point.  

To learn more about Tinuiti’s Bliss Point MCP Server, reach out directly here.

The launch follows rapid enterprise growth for Tinuiti, driven by a 66% increase in average deal size over two years and major Agency of Record wins including: Carter’s, Inc., Full-Funnel Agency of Record; Wolverine World Wide, Inc. (Merrell®, Saucony®, Chaco®, Wolverine®, and Cat® Footwear), Media Agency of Record; Serta Simmons Bedding, Digital Agency of Record; and Allies of Skin, Media Agency of Record.

Tinuiti has also made significant investments in senior leadership throughout 2026 to support its continued growth. Abbey Klaassen joined Tinuiti as CEO in June, with Bryan Wiener appointed Chairman of the Board. Most recently, Tinuiti welcomed Wes Harris as Global Chief Operating Officer, formalizing the COO role on its executive leadership team to connect client delivery, product, technology, and AI around the agency’s biggest growth opportunities.

tinuiti logo Tinuiti Unveils Bliss Point MCP Server, Pioneering Open Measurement Access for AI Agents 

About Tinuiti

Tinuiti is a media agency that not only builds brands, but architects business outcomes, creating immediate and lasting growth for clients. At the center is Tinuiti’s Bliss Point Marketing Operating System—the ultimate brand and performance unifier—which fuels decisions across Audience, Creative, Media and Measurement. This approach allows Tinuiti to treat each client’s business like its own—making smarter decisions, faster, and with greater accountability. With over $4.5 billion in media under management and 1,200 employees across the U.S., Mexico and EMEA, Tinuiti delivers measurable impact for leading brands. For more information, visit https://tinuiti.com/.

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Media Contact Details
Victoria Woodside
Tinuiti
Email: Send Email
Phone: +1 (412) 240-6043
Website: tinuiti.com

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