Border Patrol Staff Neglected to Review File of Frail 8-Year-Old Girl Prior to Her Tragic Death

A: The girl had a chronic heart condition and a rare blood disorder. Despite her medical history being shared with the authorities, Border Patrol staff neglected to review her file and provide the necessary medical attention, leading to her untimely demise.

A: The girl was in Border Patrol custody for nine days, which far exceeded the agency’s own limit of 72 hours for holding individuals. The extended period in custody raises concerns about the lack of timely medical intervention and proper care.

A: Yes, a nurse practitioner declined to review the girl’s medical documents and denied multiple requests from the mother for an ambulance, despite her expressing concerns about her daughter’s deteriorating condition. This lack of response further contributed to the tragic outcome.

A: Yes, the surveillance video system at the Harlingen station was out of service for a considerable period, starting from April 13. This violated federal law and prevented the collection of crucial evidence. The system was only repaired six days after the girl’s death.

A: The acting commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protection has acknowledged the tragic death and expressed the need for improvement. The agency has implemented measures, including a review of all “medically fragile” cases in custody to ensure prompt release. They aim to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.

A: Yes, an attorney from the Texas Civil Rights Project is representing the family. The attorney highlights the mother’s pleas for medical assistance being rejected by Border Patrol agents and the failure to review documents showing the girl’s illnesses. Legal action may be pursued to address the negligence and seek justice for the family.

A: The Border Patrol agency is conducting an internal investigation to identify the lapses and shortcomings that led to this tragic event. They are committed to implementing stronger protocols, ensuring timely medical care for vulnerable individuals, and preventing similar incidents from occurring again.