A New Jersey woman who suffered a stroke while driving and was arrested by a state trooper who believed she was intoxicated has been awarded nearly $13 million in damages.
Cheryl Lynn Rhines, 48, pulled over on Route 78 West on Oct. 17, 2017, while experiencing a medical emergency. When a trooper found her 30 minutes later, she had vomit on her face, was unable to respond beyond “yes” or “no,” and exhibited facial drooping and motor control issues, according to court documents.
Rather than calling for medical aid, the trooper accused Rhines of being uncooperative and took her into custody. She remained at the police station for over two hours before officers realized she needed medical attention. She was then transported to Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in Somerset, but the delay resulted in significant brain damage and permanent disability.
Rhines and her mother filed a lawsuit in 2019, arguing that the failure to recognize her medical condition led to the loss of critical brain function. A jury trial in January found the New Jersey State Police liable, awarding Rhines $19.1 million. The judgment included $5 million for pain and suffering, $6 million for emotional distress, $6.5 million for medical expenses, and $1.6 million for lost income.
Due to a pre-existing medical condition, the final award was reduced by 40%, bringing the total to $12.9 million after additional medical costs were factored in.
State police have not commented on the verdict. The state argued that troopers acted in accordance with their training.
Rhines, formerly a senior marketing executive, can no longer work and requires full-time care.
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.