Thomas Ervin Gregory died on February 22, 2023, at age 62 after entering Taylor County Jail in Abilene, Texas, earlier that same day. His cause of death is unknown and pending the results of an autopsy. On February 24, 2023, the Taylor County Sheriff’s Office filed a custodial death report (CDR) about Mr. Gregory’s passing.

Drug Withdrawal Can Be Deadly

According to American Addiction Centers, unassisted withdrawal from opioids, alcohol, benzodiazepines, and other substances can be deadly. However, when a person in withdrawal is provided with proper medical attention and management, the symptoms of withdrawal can be controlled or largely eliminated. This suggests that withdrawal death is preventable.

Sadly, jail is the place where people in need of care find themselves dealing with withdrawal symptoms. Jails are not intended as substitutes for drug clinics or hospitals, though inmates have the right to receive necessary care.

Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms

Withdrawal symptoms occur when a person who has chronically misused a substance such as alcohol or opioids suddenly stops or drastically reduces their intake. When in withdrawal, a person can experience physical and emotional symptoms in various combinations ranging from mild to severe. Alcohol withdrawal symptoms include the following:

• Dehydration
• Nausea and vomiting
• Anxiety
• Diarrhea
• Excessive sweating
• Insomnia
• High blood pressure
• Hand tremors
• Rapid heart rate

Learn more in Part 1 and this ongoing series.

This post is among the resources on this site intended as a potential benefit to inmates in Texas county and city jails. Making inferences that organizations or individuals have been involved in wrongdoing is never intended.

–Guest Contributor