Overview

• Michael Burch, a 69-year-old inmate, died in March 2023 from blunt force trauma and lack of medical care after an altercation with a deputy in Huerfano County Jail.
• The federal lawsuit names the sheriff, county officials, jail staff, paramedics, and contracted healthcare providers as defendants, citing constitutional violations and systemic failures.
• The altercation left Burch with broken ribs and a collapsed lung, but he was denied hospital care despite visible injuries and repeated pleas for medical attention.
• Jail staff allegedly covered Burch's cell window with black plastic, isolating him and preventing proper monitoring in the days leading to his death.
• Prosecutors declined to press charges against the deputy involved, citing self-defense, and no disciplinary actions have been reported against jail staff.