Inmate Joel Valencia, 30, of Fontana, Died After Medical Emergency At the West Valley Detention Center
SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY, CALIFORNIA (July 10, 2024) – A 30-year-old Fontana man identified as Joel Valencia has tragically died in a San Bernardino County jail.
San Bernardino County officials are saying that the incident took place on July 5. Joel Valencia was in custody at the West Valley Detention Center when it was discovered that he had an elevated heart rate.
Paramedics were called to the scene in order to help the inmate. Joel Valencia was transported to the hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
A full investigation remains ongoing at this time.
Liability For San Bernardino County Inmate Deaths
Thousands of inmates die in custody every year in the United States. According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, “In 2019, a total of 3,853 prisoners died in state prisons or private prison facilities under a state contract, a decrease of 284 deaths from 2018. The number of federal prisoners who died in the custody of a facility operated by the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) increased from 378 in 2018 to 381 in 2019.” Prisons should take a number of measures in order to protect inmate deaths.
- All inmates should have a thorough health screening when they are first admitted.
- All inmates should be carefully monitored after they are first admitted.
- Jails should be stocked with Narcan, which can be used to reverse the effects of an overdose.
Every jail has a legal obligation to provide inmates with adequate medical care. A jail or private healthcare provider could face civil liability if an inmate dies in their care. In particular, liability may occur if a jail or private healthcare provider is deliberately indifferent to the serious medical needs of an inmate. There are several steps that should be taken after any inmate’s death.
- Medical records related to the death should be preserved.
- An independent autopsy may need to be performed.
- Eyewitnesses should be interviewed.
- An experienced civil rights attorney should be contacted.
Many inmate deaths are completely preventable. They tend to take place when there are systematic failures within any jail system. This could include instances where jails are understaffed. It is important that inmates and their families understand that they do have rights under the constitution. The family of any person who died in custody may be able to seek some measure of justice through a civil claim. A civil rights attorney can examine the unique facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating San Bernardino County Inmate Deaths
We at the Sehat Law Firm extend our deepest condolences to the family of Joel Valencia. Any person who may have more information about what happened should reach out to investigators. It is our sincere hope that steps are taken to prevent other tragedies like this.
Do you need more information about a San Bernardino County inmate’s death? Our team of civil rights attorneys is here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that inmates are aware of their rights and that those rights are being protected. Whether you just have legal questions or need any type of support, we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (949) 825-5200.
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