King County has agreed to a $3.5 million settlement in a wrongful death lawsuit concerning the 2022 in-custody death of Michael Rowland, a 63-year-old Black man. Rowland died at the King County Jail after being restrained by correctional officers during the booking process while experiencing a mental health crisis. His family contended that his arrival by ambulance on a gurney should have prompted medical intervention rather than incarceration. This case has brought to light critical questions regarding jail protocols for individuals with mental illness, the application of restraint techniques, and accountability for deaths occurring in custody.
On the Rhythm & News Podcast to talk about this issue is attorney James Bible of the Bible Law Group.
Interview by Chris B. Bennett.
