As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise requires:
EMPLOYEE
Any person holding a position by election, appointment or
employment in the service of the town, but shall not include a volunteer,
any person not compensated for his service, or an independent contractor.
The term "employee" shall include a former employee, his estate or
judicially appointed personal representative.
Upon compliance by the employee with the provisions of §
12-5 of this chapter, the town shall provide for the defense of any employee in any civil action or proceeding arising out of any alleged act or omission in which it is alleged that the employee has violated the civil rights of the claimant, petitioner, or plaintiff under §§ 1981 and 1983 of the United States Civil Rights Act. The town shall indemnify and save harmless such employee in the amount of any judgment or settlement or claim except for punitive or exemplary damages obtained against such employee. Such legal defense and indemnification shall be provided where the employee at the time of such alleged act or omission was acting in good faith and within the scope of his public employment or duties. The provisions of this section shall be in addition to any other statute, local law or enactment providing legal defense and indemnification in civil actions brought against such employee.
The provisions of this chapter shall not be construed to impair,
alter, limit or modify the rights and obligations of any insurer under
any policy of insurance.