Cause of Death for Haitian Man in ICE Custody Revealed
The Maricopa County Coroner’s Office has identified tooth infection and dental disease as the causes of death for Emmanuel Damas, a 56-year-old Haitian man who passed away while in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody this spring.
Damas’ Background and Medical History
Emmanuel Damas died on March 2 at a hospital in Scottsdale, Arizona, after being transported from the Florence Detention Center, where he had been held since September. ICE reported that Damas was admitted to the hospital on February 19, after complaining of shortness of breath.
Coroner’s Findings
The Maricopa County Coroner’s Office currently attributes Damas’ death to “complications of necrotizing mediastinitis with cervical and retropharyngeal abscess in the setting of severe dental caries and periodontal disease.” The coroner classified the manner of death as natural.
Awaiting Further Reports
Coroner officials have indicated that a preliminary report has not yet been released, and full findings will not be made public for 90 days. As of now, the medical examiner has not responded to requests for comment regarding the case.
ICE’s Response to Treatment Recommendations
In a statement issued on March 6, ICE provided details about Damas’ medical treatment, stating he was tested at the hospital and remained in the intensive care unit for the duration of his stay. However, the agency did not address any allegations regarding concerns Damas may have voiced about his dental health or any dental treatments he might have requested.
Family Concerns and Response
In the wake of Damas’ death, his brother, Presley Nelson, claimed to The Associated Press that Damas died due to an untreated tooth infection. Nelson described his brother as being in good spirits prior to his detention, with no serious dental issues, though Damas had mentioned a toothache in their last conversation.
Political Response
Representative Adelita Grijalva, a Democrat from Arizona, has raised further questions about the standard of medical care provided to Damas during his incarceration. She has formally requested access to Damas’ medical records, any complaints he may have made while in custody, and a comprehensive explanation of the events leading up to his death. Grijalva stated her office has yet to receive the full records they need for transparency and accountability.
The medical examiner’s final report is anticipated to be released later this month, shedding light on the incident and any underlying issues related to the treatment Damas received.
