Inmate Mario Rushing Died In Suspected Homicide At California State Prison, Sacramento

SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA (July 18, 2023) – An inmate identified as Mario Rushing has tragically died in a suspected homicide at California State Prison, Sacramento.

Sacramento County officials are saying that the incident took place around 6:00 p.m. on Monday. Mario Rushing was allegedly involved in an altercation with another inmate.

Correctional officers hit Rushing  with chemical sprays and other less-lethal measures. At some point during the altercation, an officer opened fire and hit Mario Rushing.

He was then taken to a hospital where he later died.

 

Liability For Sacramento Inmate Deaths

Thousands of inmates die in custody every year. According to the New York Times, “Altogether, at least 6,182 people died in American prisons in 2020, compared with 4,240 the previous year, even as the country’s prison population declined to about 1.3 million from more than 1.4 million.” There are a number of common causes of inmate death.

• Inmates may die following a medical emergency.
• Inmates may die from a drug or alcohol overdose.
• Inmates may die from drug or alcohol withdrawal.
• Inmates may die following attacks by correctional officers.

All inmates have a constitutional right to be free from excessive force which is exercised under the color of law. According to California Penal Code 835a. (1), lethal force should only be used when it is reasonably necessary in the defense of a human life. Jails must also do everything in their power to prevent fights among inmates in the first place. If correctional officers use excessive force and kill an inmate, this could form the basis of a constitutional claim. There are a number of steps that should be taken after any inmate death.

• Eye witnesses should be interviewed.
• Surveillance footage from within the jail should be sought.
• Jail records from all inmates involved in any incident should be reviewed.
• An experienced civil rights advocate should be contacted.

Every jail has rules and procedures relating to how correctional officers should act in the event of fights between inmates. When these rules and procedures are not followed,  this puts everyone at risk. The family of any person that died in custody may be able to seek some measure of justice through a constitutional claim. Sadly, though, it is common for jails to deny responsibility if an inmate dies in their care. This is why it is so important that all evidence is properly documented and preserved.

 

Investigating Inmate Deaths At California State Prison, Sacramento

We at the Sehat Law Firm extend our deepest condolences to the family of Mario Rushing . Any person that may have more information about what happened should reach out to investigators. This is the second time in one week that an inmate has died at this jail. It is our sincere hope that steps are taken to prevent other tragedies like this.

Have you or someone that you care about been harmed while staying at California State Prison, Sacramento? There are a number of laws designed to protect your rights. Our team of civil rights advocates are here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that all people in custody 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 may be able to help. You can call us anytime at (949) 825-5200.