Tragic Escape Attempt Ends in Death: Family Sues Franklin County Jail for Negligence and Wrongful Death

Tragic Escape Attempt Ends in Death: Family Sues Jail Staff in Franklin County

In a heartbreaking story that underscores serious questions about prison safety and oversight, the family of Brianna Hollon has filed a lawsuit against the Franklin County jail staff following a tragic escape attempt that led to her untimely death. At just 21 years old, Brianna died in August 2023 after an incident that her family argues could have been avoided if the jail staff had taken necessary precautions.

The Incident

The events surrounding Brianna’s death began while she was being transported back to the Franklin County Regional Jail from a local hospital. Prior to the incident, Brianna had attempted to escape from the facility three times. Because of her previous attempts, she was shackled at the wrists, waist, and legs during transport. However, despite these restraints, she managed to roll down the back window of the transport van and jumped out, leaving her care team completely unaware of her departure until a staff member made a phone call later.

It was later revealed that during the jump, Brianna sustained serious injuries, including traumatic brain damage. She was found lying on the side of Coffee Tree Road, still breathing but in critical condition. Brianna was rushed back to Frankfort Regional Medical Center for stabilization and then later airlifted to the University of Kentucky Hospital. Sadly, despite medical efforts, she passed away just a few days later.

Claims Against Jail Staff

Brianna’s mother, Krystal Harrod, filed the lawsuit on September 6, charging seven corrections officers with accusations of deliberate indifference, negligence, and w wrongful death. The lawsuit argues that the jail staff failed in their duty to ensure Brianna’s safety — especially given her past escape attempts — and highlights documented infractions and issues concerning two specific staff members responsible for her care during transport.

One of the officers, Deputy Jailor Caitlin Hale, had a troubled work history, having been fired in March 2023 for insubordination, tardiness, and other policy violations. Surprisingly, she was rehired just 20 days before Brianna’s death. In her own hiring documents, Hale noted that she lacked sufficient experience for the transport position. Additionally, her colleague, Sgt. Ashli Mayes, was noted to have warned Brianna about the severe consequences if she attempted to escape again.

According to court documents, Mayes allegedly sent a text message that stated, “I swear this (expletive) ain’t escaping,” just before Brianna was transported back to jail. This raises serious questions about the adequacy of the training and protocol enforcement in handling inmates, especially those with known histories of attempting to escape.

Community Reactions

The incident has not only raised alarm bells within Brianna’s family but has also caught the attention of the community. Many residents are now calling for a thorough examination of the practices and protocols in place at the Franklin County jail. The apparent failures of the staff to secure and monitor an inmate with a history of escape attempts have become a point of concern for those who advocate for inmate rights and safety.

Krystal Harrod is seeking punitive damages and has requested a jury trial, hoping to bring to light the negligence that led to her daughter’s death. As the case unfolds, it is expected to shine a spotlight on the larger issues of jail safety and the treatment of vulnerable inmates in custody.

Looking Ahead

As the legal proceedings begin, many are watching closely, not only for justice for Brianna Hollon but also to ensure that such a tragedy is never repeated. The story serves as a reminder of the critical responsibility that jail staff undertakes in safeguarding the lives of those in their care. For now, the community mourns the loss of a young life and waits for answers.