ACLU of Missouri Files federal lawsuit against Advanced Correctional Healthcare and Pettis County
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (KMIZ
The American Civil Liberties Union of Missouri filed a lawsuit in the federal court Nov. 8 against Advanced Correctional Healthcare and Pettis County for allegedly denying an incarcerated individual access to life-saving medication after he was diagnosed with HIV.
The ACLU seeks a preliminary injunction from the Court to ensure that their client has continued access to antiretroviral therapy medication.
For months after the plaintiff – who is listed as John Doe -- was diagnosed while in custody, ACH Dr. Alan Weaver and jail staff allegedly ignored his pleas for HIV treatment, according to a press release. The ACLU alleges staff allowed him to see a doctor after he “secured outside funding.”
ACLU of Missouri claims after the man was prescribed medication, staff failed to administer it consistently or properly, causing the detainee to miss more than 10 doses of life-saving medication. In addition, since entering Pettis County Jail, the detainee has also allegedly not received his prescribed medications for mental health conditions.
Despite knowing that ART is crucial to suppress HIV viral load and prevent life-threatening consequences,
The ACLU claims Weaver refused to prescribe medication or conduct testing because the plaintiff is poor and could not pay for the necessary medication.
