Think Outside the Cage: Emily Rice Settlement Approved

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Monday, November 17, 2008

Emily Rice Settlement Approved

The Denver City Council has approved a $3 million settlement with the family of Emily Rae Rice, the young woman who bled to death in the city jail while pleading for help for hours.

The council voted 11 to 1 in support of the settlement.

Councilwoman Jeanne Faatz cast the dissenting vote, saying it was "an excessive amount for taxpayers to pay."

At least one of Faatz's colleagues and the family's attorney disagreed.

"I think it's a fair amount," said Councilman Doug Linkhart, adding that it's difficult to put a value on a human life.

Attorney Darold Killmer, who represents Rice's parents, Sue Garber and Roy Rice, said he respected Faatz's opinion but disagreed with her.

"We're very gratified with the 11 to 1 vote," he said. "It shows overwhelming support for the fairness of this settlement. It shows a sensitivity on the part of the council that we expected to see."

Rice, 24, died of internal injuries at the jail on Feb. 19, 2006, after she was injured in a car accident the day before.

Doctors at Denver Health treated Rice before she was booked into jail on suspicion of drunken driving.

Once she was in the city's custody, she begged for help for hours, but her pleas fell on deaf ears.

Rocky Mountain News