At age 53, Ronald Tracy Bush was booked into Comal County Jail on June 8, 2023. During intake, it was noted that Mr. Bush exhibited mental health problems and medical problems. He died on July 11, 2023, presumably because of numerous medical issues, though his cause of death is pending the results of an autopsy. The address of Comal County Jail is 3000 IH 35 S, New Braunfels, TX 78130. Comal County Jail can accommodate up to 582 inmates.

How Common is Restraint Chair Abuse in Jails?

Restraint chairs are controversial methods of restraint used in jails and prisons across the U.S. The Texas Commission on Jail Standards has approved the use of restraint chairs in municipal and county jails. Guidelines for their use are found among the minimum jail standards that county jails must comply with.

News stories often reveal detailed accounts in which inmates describe the abusive treatment they were subjected to while helplessly strapped in a restraint chair. Fortunately, the individuals who abuse restraint chairs are sometimes held accountable for their actions. When abuse is punished, it is often because of videos that have captured the behavior on camera.

A Former County Sheriff is Caught on Camera Misusing a Restraint Chair

The rules for using a restraint chair in a county or municipal jail in Texas are very specific.

Learn more in this continuing series.

This website aims to provide resources helpful to Texas inmates detained in county and municipal jails. There is never an intention of insinuating that persons or organizations have been participants in wrongdoing.

–Guest Contributor