Family of transgender woman who died at Rikers Island plans to sue the city

The family of a 27-year-old transgender woman who died at Rikers Island back in June is now suing the city of New York.

News 12 Staff

Nov 1, 2019, 9:59 PM

Updated 1,628 days ago

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The family of a 27-year-old transgender woman who died at Rikers Island back in June is now suing the city of New York.
The family of Layleen Polanco says they are also suing employees for what they call civil rights violations and failures under the Americans With Disabilities Act.
According to an autopsy, Polanco died from complications due to an epileptic condition. Polanco's death sparked protests within the LGBTQ community over accusations that Polanco was treated differently because she was transgender.
A hearing was held on Friday based on the city's motion to suspend the case until the city can complete its own investigation before the family is allowed to pursue its lawsuit.
The lawsuit will move forward with the next court date scheduled for Dec. 6.


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