A lawsuit has been filed in Charleston following the death of a detainee at a local jail, raising serious concerns about inmate care and mental health support.
Lawsuit Filed Over Jail Death
The family of Forrest Kreider, 33, has filed a lawsuit against the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office and others. The suit alleges negligence, gross negligence, and wrongful death, and calls for a jury trial.
Kreider died in 2024 while being held at the Sheriff Al Cannon Detention Center. An autopsy later ruled his death as a suicide.
Mental Health Concerns Before Death
According to the lawsuit, Kreider had reported health and mental concerns while in custody. In January 2024, he underwent a medical evaluation and mentioned possible withdrawal symptoms.
He was still placed in the general population but monitored for withdrawal.
In February, Kreider reportedly submitted a request stating he felt depressed and wanted to speak to a counselor. He was later diagnosed with bipolar disorder and prescribed medication.
Events Leading to Death
On April 23, surveillance footage showed Kreider moving a chair in his cell and covering the door. Shortly after, officers found him unresponsive.
The lawsuit states he had used a blanket to create a noose and was found hanging from the cell door.
Additional Defendants Named
The lawsuit also names VitalCore Health Strategies and Meenakshi Parmar, who were involved in his medical care.
An expert report included in the case claims that Kreider’s death could have been prevented.
Claims of Negligence
The lawsuit argues that the defendants failed to provide proper care and acted in a reckless and negligent manner. It claims that these actions directly contributed to Kreider’s death.
The family is seeking financial compensation, including damages for the loss.
