Andranik Grigoryan, a resident of New York, claims that officials at an Indiana detention center left him in a dire state following a seizure. The incident, caused by missed epilepsy medication, allegedly led to further mistreatment after he returned from the hospital.
Allegations Against ICE and Correctional Officers
Grigoryan was detained at Miami Correctional Facility in Indiana from December 30 to May 15. He has filed separate lawsuits against Centurion Health of Indiana and unnamed Indiana Department of Correction officers. The lawsuits were presented on Monday at the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Indiana.
Grigoryan’s claims highlight significant issues within ICE detention facilities, particularly related to medical care. He alleges officials left him lying in blood after a seizure and later pepper-sprayed him without provocation. Newsweek sought comments from both the Department of Homeland Security and Centurion Health, but only the latter declined to comment.
Medical and Legal Concerns
The Trump administration has faced criticism over the medical treatment of detainees. Advocates have pointed to delays and inadequate care. The lawsuit against Centurion details how staffing issues jeopardized detainees’ access to medication, leaving Grigoryan without his anti-seizure medication, Keppra. He endured a severe seizure on January 22 due to missing the medication.
Grigoryan’s complaint states he hit his head during the seizure and was found by staff in a pool of blood. He was hospitalized, treated for a head wound, and returned later that day. Missed medications were not uncommon, he alleges, noting times when he did not receive Keppra, including reports of a shortage.
Alleged Use of Force by Officers
Following his return from the hospital, officers reportedly moved Grigoryan despite his weakened state. Although he questioned their actions, he maintained he did not threaten or resist. The lawsuit claims officers then sprayed pepper spray through the cell door, affecting his eyes and causing significant discomfort. Afterward, he was handcuffed and relocated without being allowed to wash the spray off.
Grigoryan alleges further rights violations under the 14th Amendment, asserting both inadequate medical care and unjustified use of force.
ACLU of Indiana’s Response
The ACLU of Indiana represents Grigoryan, arguing his treatment was both cruel and unconstitutional. Ken Falk, the legal director, emphasized Grigoryan’s right to adequate medical care and safety, condemning the pepper-spray incident as particularly egregious.
Broader Issues at Miami Correctional Facility
The lawsuits emerge amidst scrutiny of medical practices at Miami Correctional Facility, where there have been detention-related deaths this year. Lorth Sim died on February 16, and Tuan Van Bui passed on April 1, both under ICE custody. Allegations of neglected treatment have raised serious concerns about the facility’s healthcare provisions.