Louisville, Ky. – The family of Juan Miguel Muñoz Penalver, a 21‑year‑old Cuban immigrant who had lived in the United States for less than two years, has filed a civil lawsuit accusing the Louisville Metro Department of Corrections (LMDC) and a contracted medical provider of neglect that they say caused his death.
Allegations of inadequate care
According to the complaint, Muñoz Penalver was booked into LMDC in February 2024. Two days after his intake, he attempted suicide and lost consciousness. The lawsuit asserts that after the incident he was placed on suicide watch but was not examined by a physician, nor was he provided an interpreter despite his limited English proficiency.
Attorney George Budd, representing the family, described Muñoz Penalver as being in a state of psychosis and unable to make decisions for himself. He said, “It was screaming that he needed help.” The complaint alleges that the inmate’s condition worsened over the following days: he stopped taking his antipsychotic medication, ceased wearing clothing, and was unable to walk without assistance.
Failure to monitor and treat
The suit claims LMDC’s policies required a mental‑health professional to check the inmate every 30 minutes, yet the complaint states that he was seen by a professional only once, roughly a week after his suicide attempt. On the night of February 25, Muñoz Penalver allegedly lay on the floor of his cell and did not get up. He was found cold and stiff the next morning.
The medical examiner later determined the cause of death to be “acute psychosis and complications thereof,” with dehydration identified as the mechanism. Toxicology testing reportedly found no antipsychotic medication in his system.
Family demands transparency and accountability
Muñoz Penalver’s mother said she never received a call from LMDC about her son’s death and learned of the tragedy only through an attorney. She described the loss as “heartbreaking.” The family is seeking full transparency, accountability for those responsible, and systemic changes within the department to prevent similar tragedies.
LMDC response
Maj. Michael Redmon, spokesperson for LMDC, confirmed that two employees under investigation in connection with the incident are no longer with the department. While the agency declined to comment on specific details of the case, Redmon emphasized that the safety of both inmates and staff is a top priority. He noted that individuals who refuse vital‑sign checks for two days are transferred to the University of Louisville Hospital for further evaluation.
Redmon added, “We are continually evaluating ways to improve safety at LMDC.” The department’s statement reflects an ongoing internal review, though the lawsuit suggests that existing protocols were not followed.
Broader implications
The case highlights concerns about mental‑health care in correctional facilities, especially for non‑English‑speaking detainees. Advocates for prison reform argue that adequate monitoring, timely medical evaluation, and language assistance are essential to protect the rights and dignity of incarcerated individuals.
Local officials have not yet announced any policy changes, but the lawsuit may prompt a reevaluation of LMDC’s suicide‑watch procedures and its partnership with private medical providers.
Original reporting: WLKY Louisville — read the source article.
