Josiah Johnson Dies at Potter County Jail After 15 Hours

Thirty-three-year-old Josiah Devon Johnson went through Potter County Jail intake on September 5, 2024. He died 15 hours later in the jail’s medical housing unit. Under the direction of Sheriff Brian L. Thomas, a custodial death report (CDR) was filed by the Potter County Sheriff’s Department on September 10, 2024. The CDR shows that Mr. Johnson was under the influence of drugs or alcohol during intake.

The Potter County Jail is at 13103 NE 29th in Amarillo, TX. The Amarillo jail can house 598 detainees.

How Common Are Withdrawal Deaths in U.S. Jails?

Detainees in county and local jails have a right to necessary medical care. That includes medical treatments necessary to save lives from withdrawal deaths. It is a disturbing statistic that alcohol and drugs are the third leading cause of death in our nation’s jails. A recent study that analyzed jail mortality data showed that 1,442 deaths within a 13-year period were associated with drugs and alcohol. Yet only 103 of those deaths were attributed to substance withdrawal. Part of the reason for this is the way deaths are coded.

But the more important question is why so many detainees in county and municipal jails die while experiencing withdrawal from substances? Here are some statistics that may help answer that question:

Among arrestees, about 16% have an opiate or alcohol dependence. Only 28% of U.S. jail administrators during the same period reported having ever detoxified detainees.

Drug and alcohol withdrawal appears to be inadequately treated in jails across the country. Tragically, this oversight often ends in custodial deaths.

Management of Opiate Detoxification in U.S. Jails

A national survey of 500 county and city jails was recently conducted. The survey asked for information about how opiate dependence among detainees is assessed and managed. Responses clearly showed that many jails do not use recommended procedures for opiate detoxification. Per the Bureau of Justice Assistance, deaths from withdrawal are preventable. Jails have a pressing duty to establish and implement withdrawal protocols and policies.

From 2000 to 2019, there was an increase of 33% in the number of local jail inmates who died from all causes. In the same period, those who died from drug/alcohol intoxication jumped 397%. The median length of incarceration in a local jail before death from drug or alcohol intoxication was 1 day. It is common for individuals to experience substance withdrawal during the booking process in jail. Lifesaving protocols to address substance withdrawal in U.S. jails are obviously needed.

Legal Assistance for Jail Medical Neglect from the Law Offices of Dean Malone

If you suspect that your loved one’s death in a Texas jail resulted from neglect or abuse, it is crucial to secure experienced legal help. The Law Offices of Dean Malone are dedicated to asserting the rights of inmates and their families. We have a team focused on jail death cases, including those involving custodial suicides. Our skilled team has extensive experience in these complex and sensitive matters. Additionally, if you are a former inmate who endured abuse, neglect, or insufficient medical care that led to serious injuries, we may be able to assist you. Contact us for a free case evaluation—we are available 24/7 via phone, text, or our online form.

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