Expert Questions Treatment of Inmate Later Found Dead in Milwaukee County Jail

 

A criminal justice expert railed the cell conditions of inmate Terrill Thomas in the days before his death behind bars in the Milwaukee County Jail.

Martin Horn testified during day two of an inquest where a six person jury could recommend criminal charges.

It is advisory.

The district attorney is not bound by the recommendation.

The medical examiner says Terrill Thomas died of dehydration one year ago.

Correctional officers have already testified that his water had been cut off because he had flooded his cell.

We've also learned he had a concrete slab for a bed.

Horn testified that inmates should never be deprived of basic human needs.

"I don't see any penological reason to keep a person in these conditions for this period of time," said Horn.

A psychologist who worked with Thomas also testified that Thomas had bi-polar disorder.

Look for the latest on the CBS 58 News at 4 and 5.