Press Release from the Sevier Family:

Dated: February, 1996

It will be five years this April 21st since our son, Gregg Sevier, was shot to death in our home by two Lawrence policemen. We had called 911 to have a professional come help Gregg because he was depressed and was not responding to us. Instead of sending a trained professional, police officer Bordman arrived, followed by officer Phillips. In just a little over four minutes from the time officer Bordman arrived at our home, Gregg had been shot six times. One of the bullets that went through Gregg struck near our daughter Judy's head as she lay on her bed.

On the 18th day of November, 1992, we directed our attorneys to file suit in Federal District Court against Lawrence Chief of Police, Ron Olin, and Lawrence police officers, Ted Bordman and James Phillips.

During the past years as the lawsuit has worked its way through the Court system and many appeals, the memory of Gregg's death has always been with us. We want to thank the Lawrence community for its support of our family during these trying times.

Today, we announce that the Gregg Sevier Family has settled the Federal lawsuit with the Lawrence Chief of Police and the Lawrence police officers. We have agreed that the amount of the settlement is confidential. While no amount of money can restore our son, we feel we have accomplished part of our goals.

Prior to reaching a settlement with Chief Olin and officers Bordman and Phillips, our attorneys did an exhaustive investigation of all aspects of this case. Weeks of depositions were taken of all material witnesses, the defendants, and our expert witnesses and those of the Lawrence Police Department. An in depth analysis of the law surrounding our case was done by our lawyers and by appellate judges as they ruled on various appeals. We feel we have a full and complete understanding of all aspects of the case and that is why we choose at this time to settle this case.

Our family hopes that this lawsuit has brought about certain positive changes in the Lawrence Police Department's 911 procedures that may help other Lawrence citizens in the future. The issue of racism against Native Americans was once again brought to light and hopefully the Lawrence Police Department now has a better understanding of Indian culture which is an integral part of our unique community in Lawrence.

We plan to continue the memorial march for Gregg each year on or near the date of his death of April 21st. This community gathering contributes to the healing process for our family and friends and serves as a reminder to the Lawrence Police Department that this community will not tolerate another injustice such as this.

Any questions or comments regarding this release should be directed to our attorney, Lance Burr, at 16 East 13th Street, Lawrence, KS 66044 (phone number 913-842-1133).

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The Greg Sevier Homicide is documented in the book "Hitchita!" by Jerry Thomas.

An abridged version of Hitchita can be ordered via Pines International, P.O. Box 1107, Lawrence, Kansas 66044. Please include $5.00 for postage and handling.

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