Paradigm owner gets probation

MIDLAND The owner of Paradigm Physical Therapy in Odessa, Midland and other cities pleaded guilty to manslaughter Tuesday and will serve 10 years probation and pay a $10,000 fine.

William "Bill" Dodson, 43, was originally indicted on a charge of intoxication manslaughter but pleaded to manslaughter, Midland District Attorney Teresa J. Clingman said.

Clingman said pleas from the family of Paul “Tripper” Rice, who was killed in May in a one-car accident in Midland County, prompted her to accept the plea. “If not for the request of the family, I would have never made that recommendation.”

Clingman said she always listens to family members but then also takes into account what is good for the community. “I could tell they wanted closure to this case,” she said.

It was an unusual act of mercy, she said.

“They are incredible people to set aside their loss and give him the chance to make his life better,” Clingman said of the Rice family.

She said it was unusual for a family to request probation for someone when a family member has died. “To put someone on probation when their loved one ... they don’t have any more overs and no second chances.”

Dodson could have faced between two and 20 years in prison if convicted of a second-degree felony.

He will serve 10 years probation, pay a $10,000 fine and also serve 500 hours of community service and 120 days in Midland County Detention Center.