Masoud Rahmati
Masoud Rahmati, 50, died at Men's Central Jail in Los Angeles in June 2023. His family's attorney, Jeremy Lessem, says he had struggled with homelessness and mental health problems for years, and that his brother repeatedly tried to help him find food, clothing and a place to live. Sheriff's Department records and an autopsy report shared by the attorney say he was beaten to death by other people held in a fifth-floor shower area early on June 13. Sheriff's officials have not explained how staff missed the attack, and the Los Angeles Times reported he was left on his bunk for about two hours before deputies were alerted.
Cause of death, as reported: Killed by another person in custody (disputed; neglect alleged). The Los Angeles Times reported he was beaten to death in a jail dorm and that deputies failed to notice for nearly four hours; the family's attorney Jeremy Lessem contests the official account and the sheriff's records say three fellow inmates beat him.
Reported by: Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department (the agency that held him); autopsy report shared by family's attorney Jeremy Lessem (medical examiner or coroner); Los Angeles Times (reporters).