Howard County Jail Violated Minimum Standards When an Inmate Died
Howard County jail in Big Spring, Texas, is now listed on the Texas Commission on Jail Standards (TCJS) website alongside other non-compliant jails. During a special jail inspection at Howard County Jail on September 23, 2024, TCJS inspectors discovered that the Big Spring detention facility had violated one minimum jail standard in connection with the death of a female detainee.
The notice of non-compliance sent to Howard County Jail on September 23 lists the minimum standard violated inaccurately as far as the rule number, though the description correctly matched the wording for Rule §275.1-Regular Observation by Jailers in the chapter about inmate supervision. The notes from TCJS inspectors conveyed the following:
- The video documentation provided after a custodial death was reviewed. The video revealed that at least twenty-four (24) rounds were not conducted face to face as required, though the observation rounds were conducted within the timeframe mandated by minimum jail standards.
Howard County Jail’s address is 3611 Hwy 80 in Big Spring, Texas 79720. The jail can house up to 96 detainees.
How Does Supervision of Inmates Help Save Lives?
Research shows that inmates are certainly safer with direct supervision by jail staff. This underscores the importance of sticking to mandated timing for face-to-face observations when a jail provides indirect supervision. When an officer is present, there are fewer assaults and abuses, such as when stronger inmates prey on weaker detainees.
When there is a commitment to protect inmates with strict supervision, lives can be saved, whether from death by suicide, withdrawal, severe illness, inmate-on-inmate attacks, or overdosing. Tragically, as in the case of Howard County Jail, investigations often reveal that a lack of supervision was associated with custodial deaths.
Supervision is the Best Means to Prevent Jail Suicides
In general, jails should always be on high alert to prevent inmate suicides because suicide is the leading cause of death in municipal and county detention facilities. Research provides plenty of predictors that can guide jail staff on how to prevent suicides effectively. For instance, the first 24 hours that any individual is incarcerated, there is a strong risk for suicide. Up to 24% of all jail suicides occur in that timeframe.
More than 90% of jail suicides happen by hanging or self-strangulation. Therefore, if a detainee is known or suspected to be suicidal, it makes no sense to provide them with supplies that can be used to fashion an effective ligature to take their own life. Bed sheets and blankets are commonly used in custodial suicides, though trash bags, phone cords, and many other items have been used.
Contact the Law Offices of Dean Malone for Help with Jail Neglect Cases
If you or a loved one has experienced harm due to abuse or neglect in a jail, seeking skilled legal support is essential. At the Law Offices of Dean Malone, we routinely assist families who have lost loved ones in Texas jails, where neglect may have been a contributing factor. We also encourage former inmates dealing with significant issues related to neglect or abuse during their time in custody to reach out to us.
Connect with us today for a free case evaluation. We are available 24/7 by phone, text, or through our online form.
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