A county jail in Texas came under recent scrutiny regarding an allegedly preventable inmate death. A man who was facing a charge of driving while under the influence died of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) as a result of a failure of the jail to provide him with insulin.

The man was not yet 30 years old, and his family continues to speak up about their grief over the devastating loss. The Texas county jail inmate died on his sixth day in jail, and the cause was diabetic ketoacidosis. Among his belongings when he arrived at the jail were needles and insulin needed for the treatment of diabetes.

An investigation into the custodial death revealed that the insulin was not examined, ordered, or provided after he was housed, though those steps were taken during intake.

According to health experts, diabetic ketoacidosis is a life-threatening complication of diabetes. Symptoms of the condition can show up within 24 hours after insulin was needed.

Symptoms of Diabetic Ketoacidosis

Initial symptoms include:

• Dry mouth
• Frequent urination
• Excessive thirst

The following are among the symptoms of DKA:

• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Confusion or difficulty concentrating
• Difficulty breathing
• Weakness
• Loss of appetite
• Breath has a fruity smell

It is essential for a person to receive treatment immediately once the first symptoms of DKA are manifested. A physician out of New York City stated that every 60 seconds that a person is not provided with needed insulin treatment brings them one minute closer to death.

Learn more about diabetic ketoacidosis and other causes of death in county jails in Texas as well as outside the state.

Providing information that is helpful to Texas inmates is the purpose of this site. Accusing institutions or individuals of involvement in misdeeds is never an intention.

–Guest Contributor