Statement By Laura Leeman on the Tarrant County Jail Deaths
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 30, 2024
Fort Worth, TX. My heart goes out to the family of Chasity Corday Bonner as well as the other families who have lost loved ones in custody at Tarrant County jails. The alarming number of deaths—totaling 65 since 2017— is absolutely unacceptable. I support Alisa Simmons’ request for questioning and hope to soon hear answers on what is causing these preventable tragedies and see immediate action addressing the underlying issues.
Jails are an unfortunate part of our society, but they must be safe environments for inmates, staff and law enforcement. Jails should not be places where life is cheap, due to negligence or lack of resources. Quality law enforcement is essential, and I greatly appreciate all of the trustworthy officers who work hard every day and often go unrecognized for their efforts. But prisoners are human beings who deserve a fair system of justice. These deaths are damaging to our community, and our humanity. The people of Tarrant County cannot treat this as someone else’s problem.
A number of these recent deaths have involved cases where the subject should have been diverted to a local mental health facility. These deaths were avoidable. Incarcerated citizens are still a part of our community who deserve justice and human dignity, especially when they are vulnerable and in need of appropriate health care support.
The public deserves full transparency, and this is why I am committed to being a voice for the voiceless. Protecting human life is the government’s most fundamental responsibility, and on this issue, our leadership is failing. It’s time for accountability and change. With this in mind, I am honored to be the Democratic nominee for the open Tarrant County Commissioner seat in Precinct 3. I humbly ask for your vote and/or any other campaign support role you may be able to offer.
Lives are at stake. I’m Laura Leeman, and I believe Tarrant County can do better.
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CONTACT:
Laura Leeman Campaign
Phone: (940) 373-1669
laura4tarrant3@gmail.com
www.laura4tarrant.org