Homeless Veteran ‘Baked To Death’ In Jail Cell

Jerome Murdough was a 56 year old homeless veteran. He was arrested for trespassing when he was found sleeping in a stairwell of some low income housing. One week later he 'baked to death' in his jail cell. 

Murdough's death is being attributed to faulty equipment, as the temperature in his jail cell was over 100 degrees.

Officials say his medication may have made him more susceptible to heat.

He had a history of mental illness, and was in the mental health unit. Inmates there are regularly checked on every 15 minutes...he was discovered four hours after he had died.

As reported by Associated Press, witnesses said the man appeared to have died from “extreme dehydration or heat stroke.” Although a small vent located inside the cell was designed to provide cooler air, it was found in the closed position. It appears that the inmate was not aware of or did not know how to operate the vent.

 

To read the full story, including more about Jerome Murdough's life, and history of homelessness and mental illness, click the button below.

[Inquisitr]