On April 5, 2015, a 14-year old male committed suicide while in custody at an Atlanta Juvenile Detention Center. Jimariya Davidson was held in deplorable conditions at the the Atlanta Metro Regional Youth Detention Center.
On December 7, 2015, Harman Law LLC filed a lawsuit on behalf of Jimariya’s parents in federal court alleging violations of Jimariya’s Constitutional civil rights.
There were multiple warnings that Jimariya was suicidal. In previous attempts, the teen used sheets and strings to attempt to hang himself. The facility was short staffed on the morning of Jimariya’s death. The facility required 29 staff members to be on duty, however, only 18 staff members were accounted for on April 5, 2015.
At least 5 documented attempts were previously reported. Reports state that the teen was held in solitary confinement on multiple occasions and for excessive periods of time. He was not permitted access to exercise for days at a time. The report also states that there was not a working toilet or shower available to the teen.
Georgia State Senator, Vincent Ford is outraged with the events that took place. He stated, “That child could very well be alive today if the right thing had been done if there had been staff in place and they had not neglected this child.” Senator Ford also suggested that Federal intervention in the Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice may be necessary.
If you or loved one in your family has encountered similar situations while in a detention center, contact Harman Law today. Harman Law fights for victims of neglect and mistreatment in juvenile detention centers. If a significant injury, death, neglect, or mistreatment are currently happening or have happened while in juvenile detention, speak with one of our attorneys to discuss potential legal recourse. Our compassionate, dedicated attorneys offer a no cost, no obligation consultation to assess your potential case. Call us at 1-888-55-HARMAN or (404) 554-0777.
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