While some accidents are simply that, many are caused by the negligence of another party. In some tragic incidents, this could evolve into a fatal accident that leaves the surviving family members with many questions. While many fatal tragedies happen on the roadways, this is not the only location for wrongful deaths.
High number of inmate deaths
The past year, the state of Georgia has seen an unprecedented number of inmate deaths. Roughly 29 deaths were recorded at Georgia correctional facilities in 2020, which is a rate around three times the national average. These deaths were ruled suicide; however, assertions have been made regarding at least one of these deaths, claiming that prison officials failed to protect the individual with a known mental illness.
In addition to these 29 deaths, there were reported at least 26 deaths that were the result of murder behind bars. This is nearly twice as many deaths seen the previous two years combined. Riots are a contributing factor, and according to a former correctional officer, the riots were the result of poor facility conditions and staffing shortages.
Cause of deaths
It was purported that the high rate of prisoner deaths was related to understaffing and overcrowding. Due to the challenges experienced over the past year, they found it difficult to balance the safety and health of the inmates while also curbing violence. It was further explained that the prison population in Georgia has a higher than usual population of inmates with a long history of violence and those who suffer from mental health issues.
The loss of a loved one is a difficult event to take in and cope with. This is especially true when it occurs in the prison system and is unclear what happened. Therefore, it is important that family members understand their rights and the ability to take action through a wrongful death suit.