My brother's tragic passing is a stark reminder of the critical need for reform within the Kentucky Department of Corrections. Hours after being booked into a county jail, he experienced a medical emergency. Unfortunately, there was neither swift medical intervention nor timely family notification. By the time we were informed, it was too late, and this heart-wrenching delay cost him his life.

This isn't an isolated incident. Far too many incarcerated individuals face severe medical conditions that are inadequately addressed, leading to unnecessary suffering and, often, preventable fatalities. According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, thousands of incarcerated individuals die each year due to inadequate medical care.

We call upon the Kentucky Department of Corrections to implement mandatory policies that ensure immediate medical intervention for medical emergencies within jails. Additionally, it is imperative to have a reliable, timely, and compassionate system of notifying families when a loved one is undergoing a medical crisis.

Implementing these changes isn't just an improvement for the system; it's a moral imperative. Families deserve the peace of mind that comes from knowing their loved ones are receiving humane treatment, even while incarcerated. Moreover, timely medical interventions save lives and are a humane approach to managing corrections facilities.

We urge legislators and policymakers to prioritize prisoners' health and well-being by instituting strict medical emergency protocols and family notification processes. By signing this petition, you are calling for accountability, dignity, and humane treatment for all incarcerated individuals.

Please lend your voice to this cause. Sign this petition to demand the Kentucky DOC guarantee humane emergency medical care and timely family notification.