Traverse City News and Events

County Settles With Family Of Inmate Who Committed Suicide

By Beth Milligan | Oct. 10, 2019

Grand Traverse County has approved a settlement with the family of Marilyn Palmer, an inmate of Grand Traverse County Jail who committed suicide in her cell in February 2018.

The $20,000 settlement bestows approximately $3,000 to each of Palmer's three children, more than $6,600 to attorney Jessie Williams, and more than $4,300 to cover Palmer's funeral expenses. A press release from the Sheriff's Office Wednesday said the settlement was reached by county commissioners "solely for financial reasons," saying Palmer's death - while "difficult to deal with" - was not attributable to "any action or inaction of the Sheriff's Office."

According to the department, Palmer denied "thoughts of self-harm" 11 times during her 19-day stay at the jail. Her four medical health service requests "were addressed and all medications as prescribed were received by Palmer." The department states that "policies and procedures dictating medication delivery, hourly cell checks, and observations were followed."

"When Palmer was discovered unconscious in her cell, immediate attempts by several corrections officers were made in an attempt to save her life," the Sheriff's Office release continues. "However, they were unsuccessful."

The release concludes that the "very low settlement amount" approved by county commissioners is a "reflection of the minimal, if any, liability the county faced" in the case.

Comment

Merry Music: 20+ Concerts, Shows & Performances to Celebrate the Holidays

Read More >>

East Bay, Acme Target Spring Start for $11 Million Sewer Project

Read More >>

The Story Of NMC's Mobile Food Pantry

Read More >>

Traverse City's Accidentals Appear On The CMA Awards

Read More >>

Traverse City Mural Festival Planned for 2025

Read More >>

GT County Commissioners Eye 2025 Budget, Including New Positions & Projects

Read More >>

Interest Rates Rise, But So Do Northern Michigan Home Prices

Read More >>

North Ed Launches Survey To Inform Superintendent Search

Read More >>

Central United Methodist Responds to Graffiti, Affirms Trans/Immigrant Support

Read More >>

2024 Holiday Gift Guide Deadline Is This Week

Read More >>

Let It Snow: Local Ski Resorts Hoping For A Comeback Season After 2024's Dire Winter

Read More >>

Cherryland Center Owners Work Toward Updated Mall Plan as New Businesses Come Online

Read More >>

The Magical World of Holiday Art Markets

Read More >>

Two-Way Streets, Rotary Square, Riverfront, TART Trail Emerge as Early Contenders for Remaining TIF 97 Funds

Read More >>