Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Family Sues Nova Scotia Over Inmate's Jail Death

Richard Douglas Murray's relatives allege jail staff negligence and inhumane conditions led to his suicide.

Dalton Murray, right, helps his mother Mary Hendsbee at their table in Auld's Cove, N.S., on Friday, Feb. 16, 2024, while poring through letters from his father Richard “Dougie” Murray that were sent before Richard Murray killed himself in the Burnside Correctional Facility on Jan. 15, 2024. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darren Calabrese

Overview

  • Richard Douglas Murray, 60, was found dead in his cell at the Central Nova Scotia Correctional Facility in January.
  • Murray's family claims he was confined to his cell for long periods due to staff shortages, contributing to his mental distress.
  • The lawsuit alleges the jail staff failed to conduct proper monitoring and ensure Murray's well-being.
  • Advocacy groups highlight that six inmates have died in provincial custody since January 2023, calling for more transparency.
  • The Nova Scotia Justice Department states it has made recent changes to better support inmates, including on-site social workers.