Myths about Inmate Suicide Continued

Jared Jon Bell Dies from Suicide in Travis County Jail

Jared Jon Bell went through intake at Travis County Jail on February 7, 2022. He made suicidal statements and exhibited mental health problems at the time of booking. The custodial death report (CDR) reveals details about his tragic death two days later. Even though he was potentially suicidal, he was left alone in a room for 54 minutes. He was placed there to make a phone call. Mr. Bell had wrapped the phone cord around his neck and was deceased by the time the deputy went back to get him.

Mr. Bell should not have gone more than 30 minutes with a face-to-face check by a jailer. His status as a suicidal patient was obviously not considered when he was left alone for almost an hour.

Myth: People who have attempted suicide are unlikely to try again because they have “gotten it out of their system.”

Fact: Individuals who have previously tried to kill themselves are actually at increased risk for suicide.

A prior attempt is absolutely a big red flag. Those who have previously tried to kill themselves should be watched diligently. They have already broken the taboo against suicide, which makes it easier to consider it as an option.

Also learn more in Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, Part 5, Part 6, Part 7, Part 8, Part 9, Part 10, Part 11, Part 12, Part 13, Part 14, Part 15, Part 16, Part 17, Part 18, Part 19, and Part 20 of this continuing series.

Providing help to inmates now or formerly detained in a Texas municipal or county jail is one of the purposes of this website. There is never an intention of implying that misdeeds have occurred on the part of individuals or institutions.

–Guest Contributor