Tragic Death at Spartanburg County Detention Center Leads to Medical Malpractice Suit

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Exterior view of Spartanburg County Detention Center

News Summary

The estate of Ashley Lee Apple has filed a notice of intent to sue the Spartanburg County Sheriff’s office for medical malpractice following her death while in custody. Ashley, 30, died from acute peritonitis after reportedly receiving inadequate medical care at the detention center. Community members are calling for increased scrutiny and improvements to inmate health standards as the case unfolds.

Tragic Death at Spartanburg County Detention Center Leads to Medical Malpractice Suit

In the heart of Spartanburg, South Carolina, a troubling case has emerged following the death of a 30-year-old woman, Ashley Lee Apple, while she was in custody at the Spartanburg County Detention Center. The estate of Apple has officially filed a notice of intent to sue the sheriff’s office for medical malpractice as of February 17, 2025, following grave concerns regarding the treatment she received while incarcerated.

Timeline of Events

Ashley was booked into the detention center on April 8, 2024, but tragically, her health began to decline while she was behind bars. According to reports, jail staff allegedly overlooked her medical complaints, providing only minimal care, which included administering ibuprofen for her worsening condition. Things took a dire turn on April 12, when Emergency Medical Services (EMS) were summoned after she was found unresponsive. Despite all efforts, she was pronounced dead later that day at the hospital.

What Went Wrong?

The cause of death was identified as acute peritonitis resulting from a perforated ulcer. Apple’s estate claims that she was at significant risk for drug or alcohol withdrawal when admitted. This condition was documented in her intake form, which should have prompted medical observation and care. Unfortunately, she experienced serious symptoms leading up to her death, including fainting on April 10 and severe vomiting and defecation just days later.

When EMS responded to the emergency call, they found Apple cold to the touch and exhibiting cyanosis, a clear sign of prolonged deprivation of oxygen, which further raises concerns about the adequacy of the care she received.

Legal Implications and Responses

Ashley’s attorney has pointed out that had she not been in custody, she would have likely received timely and sufficient medical attention. The legal notice filed details the numerous errors committed by the jail staff in managing her medical needs. However, a spokesperson for the sheriff’s office has stated that they cannot comment on the active litigation.

This tragic incident has sparked conversations among community members regarding inmate health and wellness, accountability, and the need for improved medical protocols within detention facilities. Following the notice of intent, both parties will need to participate in mediation within 120 days, which could lead to either a resolution or an escalation to a full-blown lawsuit.

A Grim Statistic

It is worth noting that, according to the Spartanburg County Coroner, Apple was the only inmate to pass away in custody during the previous year. This fact intensifies the urgency of addressing the care standards within the detention center and ensuring that all inmates receive the medical attention they deserve, regardless of their circumstances.

As this situation unfolds, residents of Spartanburg are left grappling with the implications of Ashley’s tragic death. Many are calling for increased scrutiny and changes to the medical treatment of inmates as a means to prevent future tragedies like hers from occurring.

In times like these, it is crucial to advocate for the rights and health of every individual, even those who find themselves entangled in the criminal justice system. As the community awaits further developments, one thing remains clear: no one should suffer in silence.