Inmate Robert Robinson (Full Name: Robert Luis Robinson) Died Following Medical Emergency At Galveston Jail
GALVESTON COUNTY, TEXAS (December 18, 2023) - A 67-year-old inmate identified as Robert Robinson has tragically died in a Galveston jail following a medical emergency.
Galveston County officials are saying that the incident began on December 7. Robert Robinson was admitted to the hospital due to some type of medical condition.
He remained at the hospital for five days where his condition continued to decline. Sadly, Robert Robinson was pronounced dead by medical staff on December 13.
His medical cause of death has been listed as cardiogenic shock. A full investigation remains ongoing at this time.
Liability For Galveston Inmate Deaths
Texas has one of the highest instances of inmate deaths in the United States. Deaths are particularly high during the summer months. According to KXAN, “Nexstar analyzed the 135 reports involving deaths in TDCJ prisons, the majority of which are not air-conditioned, amid concerns that this summer’s extreme heat may be exacerbating or triggering medical issues.” There are a number of factors that could contribute to any inmate death.
- Inmates with pre-existing conditions are more likely to die if they don’t receive adequate medical care.
- Jails can be extremely violent places even in the best of circumstances. Homicide remains a major cause of in-custody death.
- Institutional policies such as disciplinary measures and the use of solitary confinement can lead to a rapid deterioration of an inmate’s health.
Depending on the facts of any case, a jail or private healthcare provider may face civil liability if an inmate in their care dies. Jails often outsource the healthcare that they give inmates to private corporations. If a jail or third party provider fails to treat the serious medical needs of an inmate who died, this could form the basis of a constitutional claim. Jails should take a number of measures to prevent inmates deaths.
- Inmates should receive periodic health exams and welfare checks.
- Jail officers should receive plenty of training to identify when an inmate is in a medical emergency.
- Jail officials should follow the health advice given by doctors and nurses.
Jail deaths are often highly preventable. They are much more likely to occur when jails are overcrowded or when correctional officers are poorly trained. This is particularly true with respect to deaths brought on by drug overdoses. The family of any person that died in a jail may have legal recourse through a c civil claim. A civil rights attorney can evaluate the unique facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating Galveston Inmate Deaths
We at Scott H. Palmer, P.C. extend our deepest condolences to the family of Robert Robinson. Any person that may have more information about what happened should reach out to investigators. It is our sincere hope that greater oversight of this jail will lead to lasting reform that prevents similar tragedies.
Do you need more information about a Galveston County inmate death? Our team of civil rights advocates are here for you. We care deeply that inmates are aware of their rights and that jails are held accountable for their wrongful actions. 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 214-987-4100.