On January 13, 2013, Alyssa was arrested. She was unconscious when police officers carried her into a cell. Police should know alcohol intoxication can cause death. The officers did not have Alyssa evaluated and when an officer checked on her later that night, she had died of alcohol poisoning. Her life could have been saved by prompt medical treatment. Video from the station documented the actions of the police officers. Alyssa’s only heir at law was her estranged husband who was incarcerated when the incident took place. Damages were a challenge in this case because it was difficult to show that he lost her support and companionship. Alyssa’s mother brought the case as Alyssa’s personal representative.
Case settled post-filing, before significant discovery conducted; no dispositive motions decided.