FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – The families of four men who died while in custody at Broward County jail are demanding answers, accountability, and a Justice Department investigation. The deaths, which occurred over a six-week period, have raised concerns about the safety and treatment of inmates in the jail system.
The families, along with the Broward public defender and president of the local NAACP branch, gathered to express their grief and frustration with the lack of information surrounding the deaths. They are seeking transparency from Sheriff Gregory Tony and want to know what measures will be taken to prevent further tragedies.
The circumstances surrounding the deaths are troubling. One inmate was reportedly murdered by a fellow inmate, another died by suicide, and drug-related factors are suspected in the other two deaths. The families are demanding a thorough investigation to determine the cause of each death and ensure that proper protocols are in place to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The emotional impact of the deaths is evident as family members share their heartbreak and devastation. Jeff Geffrard, whose son was beaten to death by another inmate, expressed his pain and longing for answers. Another family member, Corine Modeste, questioned the jail’s account of her brother’s death and expressed disbelief at the reported suicide.
The loss has left lasting scars on the families, as they grapple with the pain of losing their loved ones in such tragic and preventable circumstances. The demand for justice and accountability is a driving force behind their calls for a thorough investigation and reforms within the jail system.
The Broward public defender emphasized the need for change, highlighting the significant loss and suffering experienced by not only the four families present but also by others who have endured similar tragedies. The president of the NAACP Broward branch echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the need for an external investigation to address the continued injustices faced by Broward County families.
Despite repeated requests for interviews, Sheriff Gregory Tony has declined to provide insight into the conditions of the jails. The families and advocacy groups are steadfast in their pursuit of the truth and are calling for swift action to address the systemic issues that have contributed to the deaths in the Broward County jail.