Feds and Wayne County Forge a Landmark Settlement Regarding Inmates with Disabilities

In a remarkable move towards prison reform, the Federal Prosecutors from Detroit have reached an agreement with the Wayne County authorities. This resolution focuses on creating better living conditions for jail inmates with disabilities and is likely to lead to significant reforms within the prison system.

Settlement Overview

The settlement, which includes a provision for overall monitoring, is slated to be in place for the next three years. It can, however, be terminated if the county demonstrates “durable compliance.” According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan, the term durable compliance refers to proof of sustained compliance over a constant 12-month period.

Investigation Background

Several years ago, the U.S. Attorney’s Office initiated an investigation into Wayne County jail following numerous complaints. The grievances largely centered on the county’s recurring failure to provide crucial healthcare services to inmates suffering from disabilities. These services include access to prescription medication, adequate mental health care, and necessary medical equipment among others.

Findings and Observations

During a 14-month period from 2016 to 2017, eight inmates reportedly committed suicide. It was this grim revelation, coupled with the validation of several complaints, that triggered the need for improvements in the services, programs, and activities at the lockup.

Settlement Agreement Details

Under this agreement, the county will need to establish procedures to identify inmates with disabilities upon their arrival at the jail. It will also need to implement programs that ensure these inmates receive access to services irrespective of their location within the facility.

Implications for Health Services

Health services will see radical improvements under the agreement. Wayne County will have to ensure access to medical, mental health, and dental services for all inmates with disabilities. This includes programs for opioid detoxification and treatment. Chronic conditions such as HIV, diabetes, hypertension, asthma, and elevated blood lipids will also get specialized healthcare attention.

Injecting More Humanity in the System

The county will have to execute programs to ensure the proper administration of medication to inmates with disabilities. Inmates will receive their necessary medication even when they are away from their housing units or are scheduled to appear in court.

The Settlement’s Impact on Mental Health

The settlement agreement mandates the offering of extensive mental health services to inmates with severe mental illness. These measures include individual therapy & counseling, regular screenings and assessments, personalized treatment plans, and suicide and crisis watch. Furthermore, a robust revision to the current suicide prevention program is on the cards.

Additional Clauses in the Agreement

The agreement also contains provisions for grievance redressal programs and regular compliance reports to federal prosecutors. In a resolute commitment to the agreement’s execution, the county is obliged to appoint at least one expert consultant to assist in implementing the terms and conditions of the settlement.

Effective Date and Duration of the Agreement

The resolution will come into effect starting September 15. The county and the entities contracted for healthcare and mental health services will have to adopt new or modified policies and procedures to align with the terms of the agreement. While the agreement may be extended or terminated early, it will remain in effect for at least two years from the effective date.

This landmark settlement signifies a significant step towards prison reform and exemplifies the commitment of both the federal government and Wayne County to uphold the welfare and basic human rights of inmates, particularly those with disabilities.