I understand we cannot provide first-class medical treatment for inmates in Denver, Adams, and Jefferson County jails – it just doesn't make sense economically. But, this doesn't mean we shouldn't provide basic care for the people in the system. Sheriffs across Colorado often cut costs in dramatic ways. Even food is minimal and cheap, and medical programs often barely keep people alive. I have seen this first-hand:

Judges and the Health of Inmates

I have a client who has a serious health condition. The judge in her case completely ignored her condition. The judge's attitude seemed to say:  “if you don't want to suffer in jail, don't commit a crime!” I understand judges are busy people who cannot personally care for each person they send to jails and prison. But, when a situation presents itself where an inmate needs medical attention, they should not ignore their responsibility. Often, judges lose their ability to empathize because they are too concerned with following procedures which provide safety for the community as a whole, and which furthers their career in Arapahoe, Douglas, and Larimer County.

Sheriffs and How they Run Jails

We often plead with judges about the medical issues of our clients, and they often tell us they aren't going to tell a sheriff “how to run his jail.” Judges don't want to cross certain boundaries, because they don't want to deal with the fallout of a sheriff spending more money on inmates or policy changes. Sheriffs have a lot of power, because they can make a judge's life miserable. Think about it: The sheriff is the one who enforces sentences, brings inmates to court in time, and provides security at the courthouse. Because sheriffs have a lot of power in jails, they aren't accountable to the public, which can create a bad environment for inmates. For example, I once had a client who had surgery right before he went to jail. He was on strong narcotic pain killers because of his serious surgery. When he entered the jail, he was given only Tylenol, because it is cheaper, and because it isn't commonly abused. He had to go off the pain killers cold turkey.

We Fight for Medical Treatment for Inmates

We fight hard for our clients to receive the medical treatment they need if they go to jail or DOC for sex crimes in Colorado. We know how to move judges and sheriffs to protect the health of our clients, and we are often successful. Don't try to fight for your own medical care or the medical care of a loved one in jail. You need to work with an experienced criminal lawyer who knows the judges and law enforcement officials and how they think.

If you are facing a jail or prison sentence, contact one of our experienced criminal defense attorneys at the O'Malley Law Office to be your advocate with the judge and sheriff. Contact us at 303-830-0880, or submit the “Get Help Now” form. Together, we can protect your future.

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