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Problems with inmates receiving proper medical care are allegedly a common issue in Texas county jails. The recent death of a 32-year-old detainee who died while serving sentence has sparked a $25 million lawsuit for wrongful death against the Galveston County Jail, the County Sheriff, and several jailers who were on duty at the time of the decedent’s death.
Wrongful Death Allegations
The parents of the decedent claimed that their son, who was serving a 30-day sentence for driving under the influence, had been suffering from panic disorder, a condition that required regular medication to manage his anxiety. Their son allegedly prepared appropriate documentation in support of his medical requirements and filled his prescriptions prior to his prison service.
The lawsuit further stated that medical staff at the county jail allegedly failed to provide the decedent with his prescribed medication, which led to his seizures and withdrawal that eventually killed him within days.
The complaint also stated that the county jail medical staff:
- failed to treat the decedent for seizures,
- ignored his medical complaints,
- deliberately failed to provide medical treatment by suddenly discontinuing his medication
- failed to check on the decedent as often as they should have
The lawsuit also alleges that the county jail failed to turn over basic records and video of the man’s stay in jail, and evaded questions regarding their son’s death. The plaintiffs maintain that they filed suit in order to obtain answers to their questions and to prevent similar tragedies from happening to other inmates.
County Jail History
Jail inspectors reported that in their latest annual inspection, jail staff of this particular county jail did not consistently document face-to-face observations of some inmates. Previous inspections also revealed that the county jail did not dispense medication pursuant to doctors’ instructions.
The Importance of Consulting an Attorney
If a loved one has died due to the negligence or carelessness of another person, it is important to speak to an experienced wrongful death attorney immediately, in order to determine whether you have a right of action. A personal injury attorney can assess the situation, identify the party or parties who may be legally responsible for the decedent’s death, and file the lawsuit on your behalf.
In Houston, Texas, Charles J. Argento & Associates has more than 26 years of the wrongful death experience and has earned the prestigious AV rating for maintaining the highest standards of legal ability and ethics. We also handle other types of personal injury cases such as car accidents, truck accidents, medical malpractice, defective products, premises liability, slip and fall, and construction accidents.
We invite you to call us today at (713) 225-5050 for a free initial consultation.