Metropolitan Detention Center Ignored Inmate’s Warning Signs of Illness
The Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) in Brooklyn, known for its troubled history, has come under scrutiny again. Terrence Wise, a 54-year-old inmate at MDC, had his cancer diagnosis ignored for months. As a result, the mass in his lungs doubled its size, causing him to cough up large amounts of blood. Wise is among many other inmates at the MDC who have reportedly suffered from severe medical neglect.
Recurring Medical Neglect at MDC Highlighted by Federal Judge
A Manhattan Federal Court Judge Jesse Furman earlier this year lamented on the persisting problem of delayed medical care and missed appointments at the MDC. Judge Furman cited numerous example cases, underlining the ongoing systematic issues with the healthcare provided to inmates at the detention center. These include an inmate unable to use a CPAP machine due to lack of equipment, another suffering a misdiagnosed broken cheekbone, and a third enduring a long wait for a critical bowel surgery.
A Witness to Medical Negligence
Wise first started showing signs of illness in the fall of 2021. In spite of an X-ray showing no signs of a mass, his doctor recommended a CT scan due to his concerning symptoms. It took nearly four months for Wise to get the scan, which subsequently revealed a 3.2 centimeter mass in his chest. The results reached MDC a month later, but a nurse practitioner prematurely dismissed the mass as benign. Despite Wise’s continued complaints about his symptoms, it was three more days before he was sent to a hospital.
Detention Center Fails to Act in a Timely Manner
When Wise was finally hospitalized on May 3, further tests showed that the mass in his lungs had grown to 6.3 centimeters. This discovery led to a diagnosis of lung cancer, with doctors recommending intensive chemotherapy and radiation treatments. MDC’s delay in acknowledging and addressing Wise’s condition led to the loss of precious time, significantly impacting his potential treatment options, and potentially lessening his chances of survival.
Instructors Continue Ignoring Requests for Better Health Care
Despite repeated calls from defense lawyers, judges, and officials for improved medical care, conditions at the MDC remain subpar. One judge even compared the facility to “third world” conditions in 2016. Sadly, Wise’s case isn’t an isolated incident but one in a string of similar allegations of medical neglect within the detention center.
Disciplinary Actions Against Detention Center Staff
Following the negligence with Wise’s health, more attention has been drawn to MDC staff’s conduct. A federal judge recently ordered five staff members to prepare for possible criminal charges due to another case of medical mistreatment. The Department of Justice has agreed to fund their defense lawyers in preparation for the incoming litigation.
Investor Silence: Bureau of Prisons’ Reacts
Scott Taylor, spokesperson for Federal Bureau Prisons, avoided commenting directly on Wise’s case or potential consequences for MDC staff. Citing privacy and security reasons, Taylor mainly discussed the Bureau’s commitment to the safety and health of incarcerated individuals.
The Fight for Better Care Continues
With intensified scrutiny and calls for justice, the hope is to improve the MDC’s living conditions and medical care for inmates. Despite the challenges ahead, Wise’s legal team is determined to fight for his wellbeing and ultimately, everyone who may be facing similar neglect within the facility. As Wise waits to return to MDC for his treatments, his attorney and family continue to champion his cause, hoping to put an end to such inhumanities, ensuring every person receives the care they deserve.