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🌱 Patch AM: What led to a $2.3 million payout at Lakewood’s psych hospital?

Also, don't miss Festival of New Voices 2025 – Lakewood Playhouse on the Lakewood Patch calendar

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Hello Lakewood! Here's our latest buzz. Let's get into it. ☀️

In today's newsletter:

  • What led to a $2.3 million payout at Lakewood’s psych hospital?

Also on today's calendar: Island Reminyse Band and 1 more event.

Find out what's happening in Lakewood-JBLMfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Today's riddle: What did the little needle say to the mother needle when it brought home a failing report card? 🤔 (Answer below!)

Weather forecast:

Find out what's happening in Lakewood-JBLMfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

  • Thursday: A couple of afternoon showers, with a high of 46 and low of 35 degrees.
  • Friday: A passing shower or two, temps: high: 45, low: 35.
  • Saturday: Periods of sun, with a high of 44 and low of 34 degrees.

📰 News we're reading

• WA to pay $2.3M after patient fatally strangled at psych facility in Pierce County (thenewstribune.com) — A state-run psychiatric hospital in Lakewood is at the center of a $2.3 million settlement after a long-term patient was fatally strangled by his roommate in 2022. The lawsuit argued Western State Hospital and state officials failed to protect patients from a man with a documented history of violence. While the state denies wrongdoing, the payout and case details raise serious questions about safety and oversight at the Lakewood facility.
   

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💬 Chatter

What your neighbors are talking about on social media

  • Update: Pet Reunited
    Maple, a cat who went missing in Lakewood, WA, has been safely reunited with their family after 1 days, 17 hours. Message from Owner: "Grandma lost… (Nextdoor Lakewood Towne Center)
  • We’re grateful for the hard work of all our first responders, National Guard members, and others responding to the impacts of the recent atmospheric rivers.
    Thank you for your service this holiday season, especially those who may be away from their homes and families this Christmas Eve. (Nextdoor )
  • Crunch posted a job opening for Group Fitness Coordinator in Lakewood. Apply here.
  • Red Robin Gourmet Burgers & Brews posted a job opening for Line Cook in Lakewood. Apply here. You can search for other jobs near Lakewood here.

🗞 Nearby News

Ok Lakewood! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!

-- The Patch AM Team

P.S. The answer to today's riddle: I guess I’m not as sharp as I thought.
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