[TRANSCRIPT]

Rosina Switras

A 24-year-old man that was arrested for trespassing and stealing candy and pop at a local Virginia 7-11 store, died in jail in August 2015 due to isolation and starvation. A lawsuit was filed due to the lack of care Jamycheal Mitchell received at Hampton Road’s jail during his four month stay.

Mitchell was sent to jail, and was ruled unable to go to trial. Mitchell suffered from bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Since he was young, schools described him as “mentally retarded.” Mitchell remained in jail for four months, instead of being sent to the hospital for appropriate care.

During his jail time, guards denied Mitchell of food and water, and he lost a total of 40-50 pounds, which ultimately resulted in death. One inmate said he only received one meal per day, but guards disagreed. The jail also denied him of clothing, a mattress, and sheets and blankets.

His Aunt described him as unrecognizable and felt torn after seeing him after his dramatic weight loss, saying “this is not my nephew….are you sure you have the right person?” The lawsuit is seeking $60 million in damages and fees, and a jury trial as well.