City correction officers repeatedly blocked medical staff from providing care to Charizma Jones, a severely ill woman held at Rikers Island in New York, weeks before she fell into a coma and died of apparent organ failure, according to findings from a jail oversight board.
Jones, 23, was being treated for a possible case of scarlet fever when her symptoms worsened, prompting her transfer to an infirmary on May 4. Despite her deteriorating condition, correction officers denied medical personnel access to her cell on six occasions, citing an unspecified “security reason,” the Board of Corrections report revealed.
After two days in isolation, Jones was rushed to a hospital with a rash, high fever, and signs of acute liver damage. She died on July 14 from “multiorgan failure,” according to a preliminary examination.
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Jones’ death has drawn sharp criticism from advocates and officials, triggering investigations by the state Attorney General’s Office and the city’s Department of Investigation.
Attorney MK Kaishian, representing Jones’ family, called the officers’ actions “illegal and morally repugnant,” asserting they contributed to a preventable and agonizing death.
The report highlights longstanding systemic failures at the troubled Rikers Island facility, including neglect and inadequate medical care—issues at the center of a federal lawsuit seeking possible federal control over the jail system.
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Jones, a Bronx resident with mental health and substance challenges, was serving a sentence for assault at the time of her death. Surveillance footage showed her appearing weak and disoriented in a general population unit on May 4. After an officer called the clinic for help, they were told no staff were available to respond.
Detainees attempted to assist Jones themselves, using ice to cool her down and supporting her as she lost consciousness. Frustrated by the lack of medical intervention, they eventually triggered an emergency alarm, prompting staff to act.
Transferred to the infirmary, Jones was prescribed antibiotics and confined to a cell. Despite vomiting and visible distress, officers repeatedly denied medics access to her, citing her “Medlock” status.
A Department of Correction spokesperson, Shayla Mulzac-Warner, declined to comment on the officers’ actions, citing ongoing investigations but stated that the health and safety of those in custody are “foremost concerns,” according to AP’s report.
The report noted the agency has not produced records explaining the denial of medical care, and no staff disciplinary actions have been reported.
Jones’ death adds urgency to broader reform efforts, including a 2019 plan to close Rikers Island by 2027 and replace it with smaller, modern facilities. However, Mayor Eric Adams has expressed opposition to the closure, urging lawmakers to consider alternative plans.
Advocates insist that addressing systemic neglect and leadership failures is essential to preventing future tragedies like Jones’ death.
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