Family Searches for Clarity on Inmate’s Death
After Daniel Magaña, 40, died on September 5, his family is demanding more information about his passing. Magaña was found unconscious at the Twin Towers Correctional Facility in Los Angeles. His relatives believe authorities ignored signs of a mental health crisis.
Timeline of Events Leading to Hospitalization
Magaña was arrested by the LAPD on August 21 for allegedly evading police and was immediately booked into jail. On his second day at the facility, he experienced a medical emergency that required hospitalization at the Los Angeles General Medical Center. After returning to jail, staff allegedly did not provide necessary mental health care.
The family claims that, despite previous warnings of Magaña’s suicidal ideations, he was not housed in a specialized mental health unit. On August 25, Magaña suffered another severe episode and was found unresponsive again, ultimately passing away at the hospital.
Ongoing Investigation by Authorities
The Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department, which oversees the facility, acknowledges the complexities of in-custody deaths. They emphasize the importance of reviewing the individual’s medical history and incarceration conditions. Magaña’s family remains frustrated with the lack of clear answers about what happened during his time in jail.
Family’s Recollection of Magaña’s Life
Magaña is remembered by his sister, Alejandra, as a skilled mechanic and friendly individual. Diagnosed with bipolar and schizoaffective disorders, he managed his condition with medication for many years. His family had alerted authorities about his mental health issues during booking.
Despite this, officers arrested him for evading the police instead of addressing his mental health needs. The family’s attempts to obtain information about his condition and whereabouts during his incarceration were met with frustration and confusion.
Challenges in Reducing In-Custody Deaths
Sheriff Robert Luna has acknowledged the challenge of reducing inmate deaths, citing an aging and health-challenged inmate population. Luna requested a review of jail conditions by the National Institute of Corrections following several inmate deaths in a short period.
California’s Attorney General, Rob Bonta, has also filed a lawsuit against the Sheriff’s Department over unsafe jail conditions. Last year, L.A. county reported a significant increase in in-custody deaths, within a population where many had pre-existing health issues.
Additionally, changes such as the deployment of body-worn cameras have been initiated to improve monitoring and conditions within the facilities.
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