A Merrimack County Superior Court judge this week vacated a jury verdict awarding $1.5 million to former state trooper James Conrad, ruling the state police had immunity from claims they falsely imprisoned Conrad in 2007.
Judge Larry Smukler said in his order that state police officials were immune from the claims because they acted within the scope of their duties and "with a reasonable belief" their conduct was lawful when they held Conrad against his will at police headquarters in November 2007.