On February 24, the Michigan House of Representatives’ Oversight Committee held a hearing to address ongoing concerns about the Women’s Huron Valley Correctional Facility in Ypsilanti. Many grievances have been filed around issues of medical neglect, specifically delays in care and insufficient access to specialists. The committee pressed for accountability from the Michigan Department of Corrections and its director, Heidi Washington.
State Rep. Laurie Pohutsky shared troubling information about WHV’s safety standards. Her words stirred emotions among committee members. Families of affected individuals listened carefully as she emphasized the humanity of all those incarcerated.
“People in prison are not just inmates; they are individuals with families and lives,” Pohutsky said. This point resonated with many, sparking a greater awareness of the ongoing healthcare issues faced by those behind bars.
The testimony of Krystal Clark highlighted the extreme medical neglect at WHV. She has suffered for years from untreated mold infections that originated from the facility’s unsanitary conditions. Clark filed her first grievance in 2013 concerning mold and respiratory issues but has faced continuous dismissals from medical staff. Her conditions worsened, leading to significant health complications.
Reports show alarming growth of mold in Clark’s ears and face, resulting in facial paralysis and reduced vision. “She faced treatment delays and insufficient dosages,” Pohutsky noted, explaining that Clark’s medication plan was often interrupted. Effective treatment can take a year, but inconsistencies left Clark vulnerable.
Sadly, the hearing followed the death of Jennifer Wallace, another WHV incarceree, who died from sepsis after a prolonged illness. Her family believes inadequate dental care contributed to her death. They struggled to get answers from the facility, even with legal power of attorney. Pohutsky recounted the mother’s devastation upon learning of her daughter’s passing right before a scheduled visit.
These individual stories reveal a pattern of neglect within the corrections system, with even previous lawsuits highlighting similar issues. For instance, a wrongful death lawsuit settled in 2019 showcased a case where officers ignored requests for suicide prevention measures.
Testimonies from former staff, like assistant teacher Thornton, describe the unsafe conditions under which inmates were made to clean mold-infested areas, often with minimal protection. “Cleaning happens only when officials visit, and after they leave, the mold returns,” she noted, shedding light on a troubling cycle of neglect.
Committee members pointed out the $2.2 billion budget of the Michigan Department of Corrections and questioned why preventive healthcare isn’t prioritized. Rep. DeBoyer remarked, “As a state, we chose to take responsibility for the well-being of those in our custody. They’re not just numbers; they’re human lives.”
Rishab Moudgil, a University of Michigan student and health advocate, emphasized systemic barriers contributing to healthcare inequalities. “In my experience, uninsured and marginalized individuals often face severe health issues,” he observed. “They need care tailored to their unique circumstances, which isn’t happening.”
The Michigan Department of Corrections declined to comment on these allegations. This lack of communication has fueled calls for reform and greater accountability.
Through discussions and hearings, it’s clear that the healthcare needs of incarcerated individuals require urgent addressing. The ongoing stories of neglect highlight a pressing issue that impacts both the lives of those within corrections and the larger community.
