An 85-year-old ex-doctor from Arizona pleaded guilty to manslaughter in relation to a woman’s suicide in a motel room in Kingston, New York. Stephen Miller, residing in Tucson, was charged earlier this year with second-degree manslaughter for his involvement in intentionally aiding the woman’s suicide. Following a plea agreement, Miller was sentenced to five years of probation after admitting guilt in state court proceedings.
Miller, who traveled from Arizona to be present with the woman during her passing in the Kingston motel, did not speak to reporters or make any statements in court. His attorney, Jeffrey Lichtman, explained that Miller provided comfort and counseling to the woman who was suffering from severe pain and had contacted him due to his work with the advocacy group, Choice and Dignity.
Lichtman acknowledged that Miller technically violated the law but emphasized that morally, Miller did nothing wrong. Initially facing two counts of assault, Miller pleaded not guilty in February, posted bail, and returned to Arizona. He had discontinued his medical practice license after being convicted of tax fraud in Texas in 2006.
While some states allow medical aid in dying, efforts to legalize it in New York have faced obstacles in the state Legislature. The case involving Miller sparks discussion on the ethical and legal implications of assisted suicides, prompting a reminder for anyone struggling with suicidal thoughts or crises to seek help through the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
