Lloyd Haynes, a former Rikers Island detainee, sued the city for negligence in providing him with proper medical care for his Hirschsprung disease, leading to complications with his ileostomy bag. The city is accused of stalling the case, claiming a backlog due to the pandemic. Haynes’ lawyer is pushing for accountability from jail officials, but progress is slow. The city’s Correction Department faces criticism for failing to provide timely medical care to detainees, with statistics showing missed appointments and delays in treatment. The Legal Aid Society has also filed a lawsuit against the DOC for denying basic medical care to detainees, with recent arguments in court highlighting ongoing issues.
When a former detainee from Rikers Island filed a lawsuit against the city for inadequate medical care, leading to waste leaking from his body, his attorney requested the jail officials’ policy on transferring individuals with serious health conditions to hospitals. Four years later, Lloyd Haynes and his attorney are still awaiting a response, indicating a delay in addressing the negligence claims.
Haynes, who suffers from Hirschsprung disease, a condition affecting the large intestine, was denied proper care during his time in jail, resulting in his ileostomy bag overflowing and leaking fecal matter. Despite his pleas for the necessary medical attention, he was not promptly treated, leading to a judge ordering his release on medical parole after media coverage highlighted his situation.
As his civil case progresses slowly through the legal system, Haynes is considering a risky intestinal surgery to address the complications in his stomach. However, he is hesitant to undergo the procedure until there is a resolution to his lawsuit, concerned about the financial well-being of his family.
The lawsuit involves efforts to depose jail officials and medical staff involved in Haynes’ care while incarcerated. The city’s Law Department has defended its handling of the case, citing a typical five-year process for complaints in state court, exacerbated by a backlog from the pandemic.
Haynes’ case is part of a broader issue within the city’s Correction Department, as highlighted by reports indicating challenges in escorting detainees to medical appointments and delays in providing necessary care. The city’s Board of Correction has recommended revisions to the sick call process to facilitate access to medical treatment for detainees.
In a separate lawsuit filed by The Legal Aid Society, allegations were made against the DOC for denying basic medical care to detainees. The organization has urged the court to hold the department accountable for failing to address the ongoing issues and blaming detainees for missed appointments, advocating for financial penalties for each missed visit.
Haynes’ legal battle sheds light on the systemic challenges faced by individuals in correctional facilities regarding access to adequate medical care and the delays in seeking justice for negligence claims. The city’s response to these issues remains under scrutiny, with calls for reform and accountability within the correctional system.
Source: TheCity.NYC
