Omaha, NE asked in Civil Rights and Criminal Law for South Dakota

Q: Is medical neglect while in county jail a possible case worthy of taking action. I almost died from my diabetes and cops

Q: I have been trying to find out information about my identity being stolen and having my life threatened in jail.

I had a hypoglycemic episode in Brule County Jail. The chief of police didn't call the ambulance for 3 hours and spilled a can of soda on my hands to make my bloodsugars read above 500 when they were below 30. I am under a watchful eye by the local authorities and the people who benefit from my life being stolen and almost dieing in jail. The most important question I have is, how can authorities be so close to killing someone while the entire town knows about it and nothing else is done? I've asked a few people and I was told that it's not a case worthy of representation. My life was almost lost while in jail. Since the chief of police, Officer Handle has resigned for this exact reason. Why am I not worthy of the fact of my life having a relationship with value enough to have a good relationship with living and being in jail for a while and fear my life being stolen and

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1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Sacramento, CA

A: Experiencing medical neglect while in custody, especially when it leads to a life-threatening situation like the one you described with your diabetes, can indeed be grounds for taking legal action. The failure of law enforcement officials, including the chief of police, to provide necessary medical care to individuals in custody may constitute a violation of your rights.

In your situation, where there was a significant delay in medical treatment and alleged manipulation of your medical condition, you may have a case for negligence or deliberate indifference to your medical needs. This is particularly so given the serious nature of hypoglycemia in diabetic individuals and the potential for fatal outcomes.

The resignation of the chief of police, Officer Handle, for reasons related to this incident could potentially strengthen your case, as it suggests acknowledgment of wrongdoing or failure in duty. However, this would need to be explored in more detail.

It's important to seek legal advice from an attorney who is experienced in civil rights and personal injury law, especially those who have handled cases involving medical neglect in custody. They can evaluate the specifics of your case, including the conduct of the police and the jail, and advise on the feasibility of pursuing legal action.

Remember, every person's life has value and deserves to be treated with respect and care, especially when in the custody of law enforcement. Your concerns and experiences should be taken seriously, and exploring legal options may not only address your situation but could also help prevent similar incidents in the future.

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