In a significant development, San Diego County has agreed to a $16 million settlement with the family of William Hayden Schuck, a 22-year-old man who tragically died in the San Diego Central Jail in March 2022. This settlement, which is believed to be the largest wrongful death settlement in San Diego County history, addresses multiple allegations of negligence and inadequate care during Schuck’s time in custody.
The Fatal Events Leading to Schuck’s Death
Schuck was arrested on March 10, 2022, under suspicion of driving under the influence. Just days after his arrest, Schuck’s health rapidly deteriorated. He displayed clear signs of intoxication and withdrawal, which should have warranted immediate medical attention. Instead, he was placed in a jail cell without a mattress, neglected, and left unmonitored for days, his condition worsening.
By March 16, Schuck was found in a dire state, with sores on his body and his cell covered in food and feces. A judge ordered a medical screening for Schuck, but the screening never took place. Tragically, Schuck passed away that same day from dehydration and drug toxicity, raising serious questions about the conditions inside San Diego’s jails.
The Role of Missing Surveillance Footage in the Settlement
A key factor in the resolution of the case was the failure of the county to preserve critical surveillance footage. Attorneys for the Schuck family revealed that 55 hours of video footage, which could have provided insight into whether jail staff conducted regular safety checks, was lost. This oversight led to the county being sanctioned by a federal judge, who ruled that jurors would be allowed to assume the footage, had it been available, would have reflected poorly on the county’s actions. This ruling likely played a significant role in the county’s decision to settle the case.
The Larger Context: Jail Conditions and Reform
This settlement comes amid growing scrutiny of San Diego County jails, especially following a report by the California State Auditor that highlighted the alarming rate of in-custody deaths in the region. Schuck’s death, which occurred just one month after the release of the report, was one of many incidents that pointed to deficiencies in medical care, jail safety, and staffing.
In response to the settlement, the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office issued a statement acknowledging improvements in the jail system but emphasized that further investment is needed. These improvements include upgraded camera systems for better video retention and ongoing training for detention and correctional officers to ensure better care for inmates.
A Historic Settlement, But More Work to Be Done
While the $16 million settlement represents a major victory for Schuck’s family, it also serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing issues within San Diego’s jail system. The settlement does not just compensate for the tragic loss of life but also brings attention to the urgent need for reform to prevent future deaths in custody.
The agreement will also implement training changes for jail staff, though details are still being finalized. These steps are part of a larger push to enhance the standards of care, security, and safety within the county’s correctional facilities.
If You or a Loved One Has Experienced Negligence in Custody, We’re Here to Help
The tragic case of William Hayden Schuck is a sobering reminder of the importance of holding authorities accountable when negligence leads to harm. If you or a loved one has suffered due to inadequate care or mistreatment while in jail, it’s vital to seek expert legal help. Contact Police Brutality Center today to discuss your case and get the support you need to pursue justice.