The family of a Haitian asylum seeker who died while in federal immigration custody is calling for answers after medical officials determined he died from complications linked to severe dental disease.
Medical Examiner Releases Cause of Death
According to the Maricopa County Medical Examiner’s Office, Emmanuel Damas died from complications related to a severe infection caused by advanced dental problems.
Officials said the infection spread through his neck and chest area, eventually leading to sepsis.
Family Says Medical Requests Were Ignored
Damas’ family and their attorney allege he repeatedly complained about serious tooth pain while being held at the Florence Correctional Center in Arizona.
According to lawmakers, Damas first sought medical care on Feb. 12 and was reportedly given only ibuprofen.
He later died at a hospital on March 2.
Arizona Lawmakers Seek Federal Investigation
Three Arizona members of Congress are now requesting a formal investigation into the circumstances surrounding Damas’ death:
- Adelita Grijalva
- Yassamin Ansari
- Greg Stanton
The lawmakers sent a letter to Kristi Noem asking for a full review of the medical care Damas received while in custody.
Family Attorney Reviewing Next Steps
Attorney Raymond Audain said the family is reviewing the medical examiner’s findings and considering possible legal action.
Local officials and healthcare professionals have also raised concerns about how a tooth infection could allegedly become fatal while someone was under government supervision.
Detention Facility Responds
The detention center is operated by CoreCivic, which said detainees have daily access to medical care but declined to discuss details of Damas’ case because of privacy laws.
The Department of Homeland Security had not publicly responded to requests for comment at the time of reporting.
