Wrongful Death Suit in the Case of Audrie Pott

A wrongful death suit for the death of Audrie Pott appears eminent.

For those unfamiliar with the story, Audrie Pott was a 15 year old, female high school student who committed suicide by hanging herself in September of 2012. However, she did not immediately die. She was sustained by life support for several days before the equipment was disconnected and she was subsequently pronounced dead.

One may be wondering how a wrongful death lawsuit can be filed by the family when the girl in question (Audrie Pott), for all intents and purposes, committed suicide. The answer to that question is the cause of her suicide. Allegedly, while at a party, Audrie Pott was sexually assaulted by three boys (minors) after she passed out due to alcohol consumption; in addition, the boys allegedly took photos of the assault and shared them electronically, according to a local article.

The family and their attorney are looking to hold not only the three suspects in the sexual assault case but also the owners of the home where the incident took place responsible. They are saying that all will be named in the wrongful death lawsuit. The family feels this wrongful death suit isn’t just about Audrie; it’s about making the community safer for all children.

According to the article in the local publication, their attorney had this to say: “The lawsuit now gives us the legal authority to subpoena cell phone and other electronic records and interview witnesses under penalty of perjury. While we cannot bring Audrie back, it is the family’s goal that the community is made safer by holding the suspects accountable, by sending a message that the behavior that left Audrie feeling hopeless and without a way <out>, such as harassment and bullying of any kind, electronically or not, will not be tolerated. Serious consequences must be attached to such behavior.”

Although the outcome of this wrongful death lawsuit is anything but certain, and, at present, Audrie’s alleged attackers have not been convicted of any crime, no one should have to suffer the loss of a child or other family member caused by others.

If you have lost a loved one due to the negligence or wrongdoing of another person, the experienced, understanding attorneys at Heiting & Irwin stand ready to assist and can provide legal guidance through this difficult and confusing time, as we have for many, many families in the past.