The Comal County Sheriff’s Office filed a custodial death report with the Office of the Attorney General about Ronald Tracy Bush on July 31, 2023. Mr. Bush died of “numerous medical issues,” per the CDR, on July 11, 2023. He was 53 years old and still in the jail’s custody when he was pronounced deceased at the Resolute Hospital.

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

There are specific rules for using a restraint chair in Texas counties. A county sheriff in Texas has admitted behavior that was well beyond the scope of minimum jail standards. He admitted to punching a detainee repeatedly in the chest using a taser with the trigger held down. He also admits that the inmate did not pose a threat at that time.

When detainees are placed in restraints, they are supposed to choose a type of restraint that restricts movement only to the level needed. When the restraint chair is used, it is supposed to be only in cases where no other type of restraint would be appropriate.

Studies have shown a pattern of abuse in connection with restraint chairs. They are often kept in the device so long without relief, detainees are forced to relieve themselves while helplessly strapped in the chair. Tasers are often used on detainees in restraint chairs, as well.

Learn more in Part 1 and 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