Michigan Women's Prison Faces Scrutiny After Inmate Deaths Before Parole
In Washtenaw County, Michigan, a 28-year-old inmate at the state's only women's prison died just two weeks before her scheduled parole. The family of Khaira Howard, represented by attorney Timothy Holland, has received alarming reports from other inmates suggesting Howard was ill for some time and called for help without receiving assistance. Howard's health reportedly declined rapidly in the month before her death, leading to her becoming wheelchair-bound. The Michigan Department of Corrections (MDOC) confirmed that both Howard's death and another inmate's death, 57-year-old Rebecca Fackler, are under investigation. Fackler, who was diabetic and had recently undergone surgery, allegedly was denied access to the healthcare unit. MDOC stated that life-saving measures were performed in both cases and emphasized their commitment to inmate safety and healthcare. The deaths have intensified scrutiny on the Huron Valley Correctional Facility, which has faced longstanding complaints about medical care and other i...