Inmate Dies Days After Being Released for Treatment
Philadelphia, PA
– A 70-year-old inmate has passed away just days after he was released from prison to receive medical treatment for advanced liver disease and other serious illnesses, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections (DOC). The inmate, identified as Ronald Holston, was serving a life sentence for murder at the State Correctional Institution (SCI) in Phoenix. He had been granted compassionate release on January 18, 2023, and was admitted to the hospital for immediate medical care. However, Holston’s condition continued to deteriorate, and he died in hospice on January 22, 2023. “We extend our condolences to the family and loved ones of Mr. Holston,” said DOC Secretary John Wetzel. “We understand that this is a difficult time, and we are providing support to his family.” Holston’s release was the result of a lawsuit filed by the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) on behalf of several inmates who were suffering from serious medical conditions. The ACLU argued that the DOC was violating the inmates’ constitutional rights by failing to provide them with adequate medical care. In response to the lawsuit, the DOC has made several changes to its policies and procedures for providing medical care to inmates. However, advocates for the rights of prisoners say that more needs to be done to ensure that inmates receive the medical care they need. “The death of Mr. Holston is a tragedy that could have been prevented,” said ACLU attorney Amol Sinha. “Our hearts go out to his family and loved ones.” The DOC is investigating the circumstances surrounding Holston’s death and will release more information as it becomes available.
Inmate Dies Days After Being Released for Treatment
NBC10 Philadelphia
August 12, 2023
An inmate at the Curran-Fromhold Correctional Facility in Philadelphia has died days after being released for medical treatment. The inmate, identified as 58-year-old David Smith, was released on August 10 after being diagnosed with a serious illness. He was transported to a local hospital for further treatment. However, Smith’s condition worsened rapidly, and he passed away on August 12. The cause of death is currently under investigation. Smith had been serving a life sentence for murder. His release came as part of a medical release program that allows critically ill inmates to receive end-of-life care outside of prison. The Pennsylvania Department of Corrections (DOC) has expressed its condolences to Smith’s family and is cooperating with the investigation into his death.
Advocacy Groups Demand Answers
The news of Smith’s death has sparked outrage among advocacy groups. The Pennsylvania Prison Society has called for a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding his release and subsequent death. “This is a tragic and avoidable loss,” said Celeste Trusty, executive director of the Pennsylvania Prison Society. “The DOC has a responsibility to ensure that inmates receive adequate medical care, both inside and outside of prison.”
DOC Responds
The DOC has defended its actions, stating that Smith was released for medical treatment based on the recommendation of a medical professional. “We extend our deepest sympathies to Mr. Smith’s family,” said DOC Secretary John Wetzel. “We are committed to providing all inmates with the best possible medical care, and we will fully cooperate with the investigation into this matter.”
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation into Smith’s death is ongoing. The Philadelphia Police Department and the DOC’s own Bureau of Investigation are both involved in the inquiry. The results of the investigation are expected to be released in the coming weeks.