Lawmakers in a state outside Texas are currently seeking jail reform. An investigation done in that state recently found that 272 custodial deaths occurred in 13 large jails over the course of 10 years. About 50% of the deaths were caused by illness or a medical condition, and 25% were caused by suicide.

Alleged health care lapses at jails in the state have recently been exposed by a major news organization. Specific examples have been highlighted, such as a custodial death in 2017. A man who spent 512 days behind bars died at a county jail in that state, and he had never been tried for the charges for which he was being held.

A politician in that county, who made the proposal about jail reform, said that improving mental health care for inmates is a major focus. In addition, the changes may also include procedures for disclosure and investigation of custodial deaths. Other legislators in the state acknowledge that the spate of jail deaths demonstrates the need to enhance jail oversight.

The politician proposing legislative changes pointed out that it is not feasible for jails to investigate themselves, and there is an absence of public trust. His efforts to fundamentally change the state’s jail policies began after the death of a 36-year-old inmate. Other deaths came to light, he says, as a result of the investigations conducted by the news organization.

In this continuing series, learn more about the concerns surrounding that state’s high rate of custodial deaths.

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–Guest Contributor