Woman sues Oak Hill hospital, doctor for son's death

WINFIELD -- A woman is suing Oak Hill Hospital Corporation for her son's death.

Dr. Brian S. Love was also named as a defendant in the suit.

On Aug. 22, 2009, Jeremy Rinehart became seriously ill while in the custody of the Oak Hill Police Department as a result of his ingestion of cocaine in a plastic bag, according to a complaint filed Oct. 18 in Putnam Circuit Court.

Yevette Wilshire claims her son was taken to Oak Hill Hospital Corporation, which is doing business as Plateau Medical Center, where he was evaluated and treated by Love and other medical providers.

The defendants discharged Rinehart from Plateau and back into the custody of the police department, although Rinehart remained at risk of death or serious bodily injury without continuing care and treatment, according to the suit.

Wilshire claims shortly after his discharge, her son suffered severe pain before losing consciousness and being transported to Raleigh General Hospital. Rinehart died on Aug. 26, 2009.

The defendants failed to exercise the degree of care, skill and learning required or expected, according to the suit.

Wilshire is seeking compensatory compensatory damages with pre- and post-judgment interest. She is being represented by Allan N. Karlin and Sarah W. Montoro.

The case has been assigned to Circuit Judge Phillip Stowers.

Putnam Circuit Court case number: 11-C-295