This article, published October 13, 2016 by Wisconsin Public Radio reporter Danielle Kaeding, details a $50,000 settlement between the City of Superior and Natasha Lancour, an African American woman who alleged excessive force by Officer George Gothner during a January 2014 arrest. Dash-cam video captured Gothner striking Lancour as she struggled against arrest outside a bar, sparking a year-long review by state and local agencies. Investigators, including the Wisconsin Department of Justice’s Training and Standards Bureau, ultimately found Gothner’s use of force did not violate policy.

Superior City Attorney Frog Prell confirmed that the $50,000 settlement, covered by the city’s insurance carrier, included no admission of wrongdoing. Police Chief Nick Alexander said the department continues to evaluate serious incidents for improvement and is collaborating with the University of Wisconsin–Superior on cultural awareness and continuing education for officers. He emphasized rebuilding community trust and fostering inclusion within the department. Lancour’s attorney declined comment due to confidentiality terms in the agreement.