The State of Washington has reached a $6.5 million settlement with the family of Paula Joyce over claims arising from a tragic traffic accident in Tacoma on Aug. 8, 1997 that took Mrs. Joyce's life. Taking into account all the circumstances, the Department of Corrections (DOC) believes the settlement is in the best interests of the state and the Joyce family.
The agreement eliminates the uncertainties associated with a new trial and verdict in this case, as well as the possibility of another lengthy appeal. In September, the state Supreme Court overturned the original $22.4 million verdict in the case because of an erroneous jury instruction. The case was sent back to the Pierce County Superior Court for a new trial.
DOC representatives have offered to meet with Stephen Joyce, the husband of Paula Joyce, to hear his perspectives on DOC's efforts to supervise offenders in the community, and the many changes that have taken place in that field over the past five years. With the lawsuit now settled, DOC appreciates the opportunity to discuss these issues with the Joyce family. Mrs. Joyce was killed when the vehicle she was driving was struck by a stolen vehicle driven by an offender who was under court-ordered DOC supervision as the result of domestic-violence and possession of stolen property cases.