In a landmark settlement reported by The Statesman Journal, the state of Oregon has agreed to pay $4 million to the family of a 20-year-old who died by suicide while on parole with the Oregon Youth Authority (OYA). This significant settlement highlights the concerns about the treatment and supervision of the acutely mentally ill that are in the legal custody of the State of Oregon’s Youth Authority.
The lawsuit alleged that the state's negligence, violations of civil rights, and inadequate mental health care contributed directly to the young man's death. Jeremiah Ross was trusted by the family to obtain justice under these tragic circumstances. The settlement spotlights the need for systemic reforms to prevent similar tragedies in the future. It is Jeremiah Ross’s hope that the State of Oregon has acknowledged the severity of the case and expressed a commitment to improving mental health services within correctional facilities.
This case underscores the critical importance of proper mental health care and oversight in custodial settings, prompting discussions about policy changes and increased funding for mental health initiatives.
For the full article Click: Here.
The Case was Galm v. The State of Oregon (OYA), Et Al, United States District Court for the District of Oregon Case: 3:23-cv-00962.
This is the second time Ross Law and Jeremiah Ross have been featured by the Statesman Journal for representing a family seeking justice on behalf of a relative who tragically committed suicide. Click Here, for the previous article.
If you or someone you know were abused, neglected, sexually assaulted, severely injured, or have endured a tragic loss of a loved one, and believe it is the fault of the Oregon Youth Authority (OYA), Oregon Department of Human Services Child Protective Services (CPS), the Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC), or any local or state law enforcement agency, please call Ross Law at 503.224.1658 to discuss your options.
Please remember that each case is different and although this million-dollar recovery occurred in this case, it may not occur in every case.