Skip to content

Wrongful Death Suit Filed for Death of Mentally Ill Inmate

The estate and family of a mentally ill Oregon man have filed suit against the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office for the man’s death in prison.  Bradley Thomas, 55, was found dead of significant dehydration in his cell two weeks after being booked on misdemeanor allegations.  The autopsy classified the death as a “sudden death in schizophrenic patient,” and the complaint lists several instances in which the jail staff was aware of Mr. Thomas’ disease but failed to give the proper treatment or attention.  Instead of receiving the attention and care he needed, the complaint alleges, Mr. Thomas was punished by jail staff.

All of us have a right to health and life, whether in or out of jail.  Just as families of individuals who needlessly died while not incarcerated have the right to bring suit against the parties who caused such death, the families of incarcerated individuals who died prematurely have the right to bring wrongful death suits against the jail and their staff.  When a person goes to prison, they do not forfeit their right to proper medical treatment.  If you have a loved one who has been mistreated in jail, whether they were injured or died because of mistreatment, you may have a claim against the jail.  Please do not hesitate to reach out to Plattner Verderame, PC with any questions about a potential claim.  We are honest lawyers who spend our days helping honest clients.