By Trend News Line 2024-02-13 02:00:00.
Tragic Death of Inmate with Chronic Health Issues in Sedgwick County Jail
SEDGWICK COUNTY — A heartbreaking incident unfolded in Sedgwick County jail as a 36-year-old inmate, Kelly Junius Peterson, passed away on Sunday due to his persistent health issues. Peterson, who had a history of chronic medical problems, was transported to a local hospital by EMS on January 28, according to Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Lt. Nathan Gibbs.
Peterson had been under the care of the Detention Facility Medical Clinic for the past three years, seeking treatment for his ongoing health concerns. He had repeatedly reported his difficulties to the jail medical staff, resulting in 25 hospitalizations since his arrest in October 2020. His charges included Criminal Sodomy, Aggravated Indecent Liberties, and Sexual Exploitation of a child.
Throughout 2023, Peterson was hospitalized eight times as medical professionals tirelessly tried to improve his condition. Unfortunately, his chances of survival remained slim. In accordance with medical advice, on February 8, the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office contacted Peterson’s family and made arrangements for them to visit him.
The devastating news came just before 5:30 p.m. on Sunday when Peterson was pronounced deceased. The Kansas Bureau of Investigation and the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Investigation Division were immediately notified to commence their inquiries.
A Life Filled with Struggles and Challenges
Kelly Junius Peterson’s life had been marked by numerous hardships and legal battles. His ongoing health issues had plagued him for years, warranting continuous medical attention and hospitalizations. Despite the efforts of the medical staff, his condition remained incredibly fragile, leaving him with little hope for a full recovery.
Moreover, Peterson faced serious felony charges related to Criminal Sodomy, Aggravated Indecent Liberties, and Sexual Exploitation of a child. These charges had led to his arrest in October 2020 and subsequent confinement in Sedgwick County jail. Throughout his time in custody, Peterson continuously sought medical assistance, reporting his chronic health problems to the jail medical staff.
His family had been notified on February 8 that Peterson’s condition was rapidly deteriorating, prompting the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office to make special arrangements for them to visit him. Tragically, Peterson’s battle finally came to an end on Sunday, leaving his loved ones devastated and prompting further investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.
The Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office, in collaboration with the Kansas Bureau of Investigation and the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Investigation Division, will now work diligently to uncover the truth behind this unfortunate incident. As the community mourns the loss of Kelly Junius Peterson, his story serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by individuals with chronic health issues within the criminal justice system.
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