Haitian Man Dies in ICE Custody; Family Claims Neglect in Care

Haitian Detainee’s Tragic Death Highlights Concerns Over ICE Custody

A recent case involving a Haitian detainee at a Scottsdale hospital has sparked fresh concerns about the treatment of individuals in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody. Emmanuel Damas, a 56-year-old man, died after experiencing a series of medical complications, raising questions about the care provided during his detention.

Damas was held at the Florence Correctional Center, where his brother, Presly Nelson, reported that he initially complained of a severe toothache on February 13. Despite his discomfort, he received only ibuprofen, and his condition deteriorated rapidly. By February 19, Damas was unable to speak and was subsequently transferred to Honor Health hospital. According to Nelson, the family struggled to obtain information about Damas’ condition, as hospital staff indicated they were restricted by ICE from providing details. It wasn’t until February 28 that the family was allowed to visit him.

Following an 11-day stay in the hospital, Damas passed away on Monday afternoon. The family was informed that septic shock, likely resulting from the untreated tooth infection, was the suspected cause of his death. However, ICE has yet to determine an official cause of death and only publicly acknowledged Damas’ passing four days later in a press release. This release stated he was hospitalized due to shortness of breath and omitted any mention of the toothache.

Damas was initially arrested by Boston police in September on assault and battery charges, leading to his detention under the Laken Riley Act. This law, enacted last year, mandates detention for immigrants charged with certain crimes, including assault.

ICE’s recounting of the events has been criticized for inaccuracies, including the misspelling of Damas’ name, errors regarding the hospitals involved, and the misnaming of the Laken Riley Act. This case underscores ongoing concerns about the conditions and medical care provided to detainees within the ICE system.