CHARLOTTE, N.C. – A federal lawsuit filed on Monday accuses the Mecklenburg County Detention Center of failing to provide adequate medical care to an inmate, leading to the amputation of multiple toes.
Allegations of neglect
Former detainee Aaron Hannon says he was incarcerated for 13 days in April 2024 when he began experiencing severe foot infections. Hannon, who has a history of high blood pressure, neuropathy and prior toe amputations, told jail staff that he required a men’s size 15 EEE shoe. Instead, he was issued flip‑flops that were too short and narrow.
According to the complaint, staff instructed Hannon to “force his feet into” the flip‑flops, causing wounds that worsened his infections. Hannon alleges that he repeatedly asked for properly fitting shoes and medication, but his requests were ignored.
Medical consequences
After his release, Hannon underwent surgery that resulted in the removal of four toes on his right foot and an additional toe on his left foot. The lawsuit claims the jail’s negligence directly contributed to the need for the amputations.
Legal action
The complaint seeks damages for pain and suffering, medical expenses and punitive damages against the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office and the detention center’s staff. It also demands policy changes to ensure inmates receive timely medical attention and appropriate footwear.
County response
The Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office has not responded to requests for comment from WCNC News at the time of publication.
Broader implications
The case highlights ongoing concerns about inmate health care standards in county detention facilities across North Carolina. Advocates for prison reform argue that adequate medical care is a constitutional right and essential for the safety of both inmates and staff.
Legal experts note that federal lawsuits of this nature can prompt policy reviews and increased oversight, potentially leading to improved health protocols within the county’s correctional system.
Original reporting: WRAL Raleigh — read the source article.
