Jesus Marquez
Jesus Marquez, 34, died while held at the San Juan County jail in Farmington, New Mexico, before his first court hearing. According to the autopsy report, he had severe strep throat that went untreated, which became pneumonia and likely sepsis, with complications from diabetes also cited. His family and attorney Christian Hatfield say he repeatedly asked for medical help, including telling his mother by phone that his chest hurt, and that he was denied adequate care; a lawsuit brought by his mother is pending. His aunt, Sharon Marquez, said his death left a big void in the family. Jail administrators and county officials declined to comment.
Cause of death, as reported: Died of illness (neglect alleged). The autopsy report cites untreated severe strep throat that became pneumonia and likely sepsis, with diabetes complications; his mother's attorney says he repeatedly asked for medical help and jail staff denied him adequate care.
Reported by: autopsy report; attorney Christian Hatfield, representing his mother in a lawsuit (family or their lawyers); inmate Rudy Martinez (witnesses).
Lawsuit: His mother filed a lawsuit over his death, represented by attorney Christian Hatfield, and the case is pending.