Home / Crime and Justice / Colorado Man's Death in Jail Results in $10 Million Settlement
Colorado Man's Death in Jail Results in $10 Million Settlement
10 Jul
Summary
- A $10 million settlement was reached in a lawsuit over a jail death.
- The inmate died from blunt force trauma after an interaction with an officer.
- Family alleges staff refused medical treatment, leading to death.
The family of Michael John Burch will receive a $10 million settlement following his death at the Huerfano County Detention Center. Burch, 69, allegedly suffered multiple broken ribs due to an interaction with a corrections officer, resulting in fatal internal bleeding.
His family filed a federal lawsuit, claiming the officer's actions and subsequent refusal of medical care by staff led to his death on April 4, 2023. Burch had entered the jail during a mental health crisis but was reportedly in good physical health.
An autopsy report concluded that Burch died from blunt force trauma to the chest and abdomen, injuries sustained during an altercation with law enforcement. The Huerfano County Board of Commissioners and the sheriff's office agreed to the settlement on May 28, 2026.
