LA County Settles Inmate Medical Neglect Suit for $7M
Table of Contents
Case Background
In a high-profile civil rights lawsuit that captured public attention, Plaintiff Gariel Brownlee sued the County of Los Angeles and numerous county officials, including medical doctors and supervisory staff. Mr. Brownlee brought the suit after his time in County custody, asserting that severe failures in medical treatment and supervision had caused him lasting harm. The case moved through the federal district Court system, where both sides had prepared for a lengthy jury trial until they ultimately reached a settlement agreement.
Cause
Mr. Brownlee’s core allegation centered on a deprivation of his fundamental rights, specifically referencing Federal Civil Rights Statute 42 U.S.C. This statute allows individuals to sue state or local government officials for constitutional rights violations. Brownlee contended that the Defendants, acting under color of state law, provided treatment that amounted to cruel and unusual punishment, violated his due process rights, and constituted serious medical malpractice and neglect. The complaint asserted that the County’s policies and customs fostered an environment of systemic disregard for the well-being of individuals in custody, which directly led to the injuries he sustained.
Injury
The Plaintiff stated he suffered from severe, lasting physical injury and profound emotional distress because of the alleged lack of adequate and timely medical care. The specific natu
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