Cleveland, Ohio – Deaths that occur while individuals are under the custody of law enforcement or within correctional facilities often go unreported due to lax federal and state reporting requirements. This lack of accurate data leaves room for unchecked instances of medical negligence and excessive use-of-force, prompting many to classify it as a public health emergency.
Investigations into deaths in custody have been conducted by reporters at The Marshall Project, including staff writers Brittany Hailer and Mark Puente from the Cleveland news team, along with senior data reporter Anna Flagg. Their collective expertise has helped shape a reporting toolkit that sheds light on this overlooked aspect of the criminal justice system.
The reporting toolkit includes guidance and context drawn from the years of experience these reporters have in uncovering the realities surrounding deaths in custody. It aims to provide necessary information to the public and policymakers to address the systemic issues present in these situations.
The toolkit offers insight into the various factors contributing to deaths in custody, such as medical neglect and the inappropriate use of force by authorities. By highlighting these areas of concern, it brings attention to the urgent need for improved oversight and accountability within law enforcement and correctional facilities to prevent further tragedies from occurring.
Through their rigorous investigative work, The Marshall Project reporters have emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability in addressing deaths in custody. By providing a comprehensive toolkit, they hope to empower communities and advocates to push for meaningful changes in policies and practices surrounding these incidents.
By bringing to light the often hidden dangers faced by individuals under custody, The Marshall Project seeks to spark crucial conversations and actions aimed at preventing future loss of life within the criminal justice system. Through their continued efforts, they strive to promote greater awareness and understanding of the systemic issues contributing to these tragic outcomes.