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Diabetes Detainee Dies; Family Alleges Neglect
23 Sep
Summary
- A detainee with diabetes died at a Louisiana ICE facility.
- Family alleges missed insulin shots and meals led to death.
- Facility recently cited for failing federal medical care standards.
Carlos Josue Marchena Marchena, a 36-year-old detainee with type 1 diabetes, died on September 18 at Winn Correctional Center in Winnfield, Louisiana. This marks the third death at the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility in less than six months. Marchena's family and a fellow detainee allege he suffered from missed insulin shots, meals, and insufficient water, contributing to his declining health.
The official cause of death is pending further medical examination. However, Marchena's condition reportedly worsened after his arrival at Winn, less than a week before his death. This incident occurs as the correctional center faces scrutiny; a Department of Homeland Security report from June indicated violations of federal standards, including deficiencies in medical care and food service.
ICE stated that Marchena received appropriate medical care, but his sister reported that his blood sugar levels were not consistently monitored. A doctor highlighted that inadequate food, water, and stress can dangerously impact a diabetic's system. Marchena, who had four children, had entered the U.S. in February 2021 and was ordered deported in July after facing assault charges.
