SPOKANE — Spokane County commissioners have approved a $425,000 settlement in a wrongful death lawsuit involving a man who died following a struggle with jailers.
Lawyers for the former wife of Benites Sichiro say the man told the jail booking deputy that he was suffering from severe alcohol withdrawal that can cause irritation and confusion. But lawyer Greg Devlin says that information was not forwarded to a jail nurse.
After being booked into jail for investigation of trespassing and assault, investigative reports show Sichiro fought with jailers on three occasions. Jailers used stun guns on him multiple times and struck him with their fists and knees, including a now-banned reverse kick called a “donkey kick.” He finally lapsed into unconsciousness and later died.
The medical examiner ruled his death a homicide, finding he died from a lacerated liver and other internal injuries.
If Tuesday’s settlement is approved by a federal judge, the money will be paid to his two minor children.
Information from: The Spokesman-Review, www.spokesman.com
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
