Allegations of Severe Mistreatment
A detainee has filed lawsuits alleging severe mistreatment at an Indiana detention facility. Andranik Grigoryan, who was held by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at the Miami Correctional Facility from December 30 to May 15, claims negligence led to a serious medical episode. He also alleges improper use of force by correctional officers.
Medical Issues and Lawsuit Details
Grigoryan filed two lawsuits in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Indiana. One is against Centurion Health of Indiana for alleged medical neglect, and the other is against unnamed correctional officers for alleged misuse of force. Efforts to get comments from the Department of Homeland Security and Centurion Health were unsuccessful.
The lawsuit against Centurion Health claims that staffing shortages affected the distribution of medication. As a result, Grigoryan did not receive Keppra, an anti-seizure drug he relied on. This omission allegedly led to a severe seizure on January 22, where he hit his head and lay in blood before receiving medical attention.
Allegations of Excessive Force
Grigoryan also alleges that after returning from the hospital, correctional officers used excessive force by pepper-spraying him. The officers reportedly instructed him to prepare for a housing unit transfer, despite his weakened state. According to the complaint, he offered no resistance, yet officers sprayed him, causing severe discomfort. He claims he was denied a shower to wash off the pepper spray and had to clean himself using a sink.
The complaint alleges breaches of rights under the 14th Amendment by both Centurion Health and the correctional officers. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Indiana, representing Grigoryan, argues that he was denied adequate medical care and protection from unjustified force.
“What happened to Mr. Grigoryan was cruel and unconstitutional,” stated Ken Falk, ACLU of Indiana’s legal director.
Concerns Over ICE Detainee Treatment
The case adds to growing concerns about detainee treatment, especially medical care, in ICE detention facilities, including Miami Correctional Facility. The facility is under scrutiny following the deaths of two detainees. Cambodian national Lorth Sim died after reportedly not receiving his diabetes medication. Vietnamese national Tuan Van Bui also died while in custody, leading to further questions about the facility’s medical practices.
This heightened attention comes amid broader criticisms of medical care within ICE facilities, where delays and inadequate treatment have been long-standing issues.