FOX5 Vegas - KVVUReport: Former Councilwoman Vermillion attempted suicide

Report: Former Councilwoman Vermillion attempted suicide

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Posted By Craig Huber, Web Managing Editor - email
HENDERSON, NV (FOX5) -

Former Henderson City Councilwoman Kathleen Vermillion was hospitalized Friday and held in "protective custody," according to a 911 call obtained by FOX5.

Vermillion made the call hours after being admitted to St. Rose Hospital for a suicide attempt, according to friends and acquaintances. She does not tell the 911 operator why she was hospitalized. However, Vermillion did tell the operator she wanted police to go to her house and make sure her 19-year-old son was not there. The call revealed the following, in part:

Vermillion: They have me in protective custody. This is actually the first phone call they've allowed me to make, and I had to get the supervisor's permission to do it.

911 operator: Do we know why it's protective custody? Is someone trying to harm you because of your position... former position?

Vermillion: I'm not at liberty to say that.

The former councilwoman has been at the center of a public feud with her former boyfriend and Clark County Commissioner Steve Sisolak and recently sued him for defamation of character.

Sisolak filed a complaint with Metro alleging Vermillion, her attorney and a public relations firm tried to extort him.

The couple's five-year relationship ended in Oct. of 2011. Vermillion recently gave up her city council seat and is under investigation for mishandling of funds at a local non-profit group.

In the 911 call, Vermillion also tells the operator her 19-year-old son might be getting custody of her 15-year-old daughter.

Operator: Who's responsible for her right now? Where is she scheduled to be staying at?

Vermillion: I don't know. I've had Child Protective Services calling me all day long.

Today, Commissioner Sisolak called Vermillion's hospitalization "very tragic." He also said his thoughts and prayers are with Vermillion and "especially her children."

Follow FOX5's MaryAnn Martinez (@maryannfox5news) for updates to this developing story.

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