Inmate Marcus Williams, 38, Died Following Medical Emergency At Imperial County Jail

IMPERIAL COUNTY, CALIFORNIA (November 6, 2023) – An inmate identified as Marcus Williams has tragically died after being found unresponsive at an Imperial County Jail.

Imperial County officials are saying that the incident began on Wednesday. Marcus Williams was found unresponsive by correctional officers inside of his jail cell.

Paramedics were called to the scene in order to help the inmate. Despite life-saving measures, Marcus Williams was later pronounced dead.

He was awaiting trial at the time of his death. A full investigation remains ongoing at this time.

 

Liability For Imperial County Jail Deaths

In-custody deaths are a common occurrence across the United States. According to National Public Radio, “The mortality rate for people incarcerated but not convicted “hit an all-time high.” The Bureau of Justice Statistics says almost 77% of the 1,200 people who died in local jails in 2019 were not convicted of a crime at the time of their death.” There are many factors that can contribute to in-custody deaths.

• Overcrowding is one of the major contributing factors for jail deaths. When jails are overcrowded, this can push their health resources to the breaking point.
• Withdrawal is another major factor behind in-custody deaths. A large number of people enter the prison system with substance abuse problems. If these are not treated properly, they can easily lead to death.
• Inadequate training can also contribute to deaths. In particular, many correctional officers do not have the training to understand when certain inmates need additional care.

Depending on the facts of any case, a jail or private medical provider could be liable for an in-custody death. Jails must provide inmates with adequate care for all of their health needs. This includes mental healthcare. Many in-custody deaths involve inmates with pre-existing health conditions. When these conditions are not properly treated, they can easily lead to an in-custody death. It is important that evidence is properly preserved after any in-custody death.

• Medical records for the inmate that died should be preserved.
• Body camera footage from all officers involved should be reviewed.
• Eye witnesses should be interviewed.
• The health profile of the inmate that died should be understood.

It can be hard to know where to begin after any in-custody death. Family members often do not have the proper time to grieve. In many situations, they may not even be aware that their loved one was in declining health. Inmates and their families do have rights afforded under the constitution. The family of any person that died in-custody may have legal recourse through a constitutional claim. A civil rights attorney can examine the unique facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.

 

Investigating Imperial County Inmate Deaths

We at the Sehat Law Firm extend our deepest condolences to the family of Marcus Williams. Any person that may have more information about what happened should reach out to police. It is our sincere hope that steps are taken to prevent other tragedies like this.

Do you need more information about an Imperial County in-custody death? Our team of civil rights advocates are here to help in any way that we can. We are committed to helping victims of jail neglect understand their rights. Whether you just have legal questions or need a free, independent investigation into any in-custody death we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (949) 825-5200.