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GBI investigating Fulton jail after inmate's limbs removed
Fulton County leaders and civil rights attorneys are calling for state intervention after an inmate lost his limbs following a medical emergency at the county jail.
FULTON COUNTY, Ga. - At least three Fulton County commissioners are calling for the governor to intervene after an inmate lost his legs and fingers following a medical emergency at the county jail.
What we know:
Several Fulton County leaders said Wednesday it is time for Gov. Brian Kemp to get involved in operations at the county jail.
Commissioner Khadijah Abdul-Rahman of District 6 asked the board to contact the governor to investigate and consider suspending Sheriff Patrick Labat.
The push for state action follows the case of former inmate Rashaad Muhammad.
Attorney Ben Crump, who is representing Muhammad, said the man begged for medicine for 11 days before a bladder infection turned into septic shock. Muhammad eventually had his legs and fingers removed due to the condition.
What they're saying:
"We want transparency... who made the decision to keep the medical provider... was it the sheriff or the county commission," Crump asked during the Wednesday meeting.
Commissioner Bob Ellis of District 2 argued that the "responsibility of safe and sure confinement" belongs to the sheriff. However, Commissioner Marvin Arrington Jr. of District 5 said that while the situation was "unimaginable," he was unsure if the sheriff should be held responsible for medical issues at the jail.
What's next:
Sheriff Labat told FOX 5 he has contacted the Georgia Bureau of Investigation to request an inquiry. He stated he cannot comment on pending lawsuits.
The GBI confirmed Wednesday that their investigation is open and ongoing. Abdul-Rahman told the board she would not "turn the other way" regarding the sheriff's accountability.
What we don't know:
It is not yet known if the governor’s office will officially intervene or if the jail's medical provider will face separate investigations into the 11-day delay in treatment.
RELATED:
- Former Fulton County Jail inmate loses legs, fingers after alleged neglect
- Attorney Ben Crump calls for new Fulton County Jail facility
The Source: The information in this story was gathered from a Fulton County Board of Commissioners meeting, statements from the GBI, and interviews with legal representatives for Rashaad Muhammad.