In a testimony before an inquest exploring the treatment received by teenager Cleveland in Unit 18, a former detention center officer named Hayden revealed that she had been asked to take on the role of senior officer for two shifts, despite feeling anxious and unprepared. Cleveland was known to be agitated on the night he harmed himself, making multiple calls for medical treatment and water, which staff were hesitant to provide due to staffing and security concerns. He had spent most of the day in his cell without access to water and had limited access to education in the weeks leading up to the incident.
The inquest heard that Cleveland’s self-harming behavior began after staff on the night shift failed to provide him with water, believing that he had already been given six cups earlier in the day. The United Nations guidelines state that prisoners should have access to drinking water whenever they need it, highlighting a breach in Cleveland’s basic rights. Over the course of 86 days prior to the incident, Cleveland spent a significant amount of time confined to his cell, with limited opportunities for education or interaction with others. This isolation and lack of access to basic necessities likely contributed to his deteriorating mental state.
The testimony provided by Hayden sheds light on the shortcomings in the Department of Justice’s procedures and policies, particularly in regards to staffing levels and the treatment of detainees. The fact that Cleveland’s requests for water were repeatedly ignored, leading to his self-harming actions, reflects a severe oversight on the part of the detention center staff. The inquest will likely further investigate the circumstances surrounding Cleveland’s treatment and the failures that ultimately led to his self-harm.
It is evident that there were systemic issues at play within Unit 18, as indicated by the limited access to water, education, and mental health support experienced by Cleveland. The lack of response to his calls for help and the failure to properly monitor his well-being highlight a concerning disregard for the welfare of detainees within the facility. The inquest will need to address these issues and make recommendations for improvements to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
The distressing details revealed during the inquest underscore the need for reform within the criminal justice system, particularly in how juvenile detainees are treated and supported. Cleveland’s case serves as a tragic reminder of the consequences of neglect and inadequate care within correctional facilities. It is crucial that measures are put in place to ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals within the system, with a focus on providing proper support and resources to those who are most vulnerable.
In conclusion, the testimony provided by Hayden highlights the urgent need for accountability and reform within the Department of Justice, particularly in how detainees are treated and supported. Cleveland’s tragic experience underscores the importance of upholding the basic rights and dignity of all individuals within the criminal justice system. The inquest must address the systemic failures that contributed to his self-harm and make recommendations for meaningful change to prevent similar incidents in the future. Support services are available for those in need, and it is essential that steps are taken to ensure the safety and well-being of all individuals within the system.
