Harford County Inmate Dies After Multiple Cardiac Emergencies
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A 69-year-old inmate at the Harford County Detention Center died on Dec. 27 after experiencing three separate cardiac medical emergencies in less than two weeks, according to the Harford County Sheriff’s Office. The death is the only in-custody fatality at the detention center this year.
A man identified as George Kenney, of Bel Air, Maryland, was initially booked into the detention center on Nov. 1, serving an 18-month sentence stemming from an arrest on Aug. 11 related to driving while impaired charges.
Initial Medical Emergency and Hospitalization
The first cardiac-related medical emergency occurred on Dec. 16 while Kenney was housed with other inmates. Officials reported that fellow inmates promptly alerted correctional deputies, who, alongside on-site medical staff, initiated life-saving measures, including CPR. Deputies successfully restored Kenney’s pulse before transporting him to a nearby hospital.
Emergency medical personnel from the Harford County Department of Emergency Services continued providing care during the transport. Following treatment, Kenney was released from the hospital and returned to the detention center on Dec. 20.
Subsequent Emergencies and Death
Less than six hours after his return, Kenney suffered a second cardiac emergency. Again, correctional deputies and medical staff responded with immediate care and transported him to a local hospital, where he was reported to be “alert and conscious.” While receiving treatment at the hospital for the second time, Kenney experienced a third and ultimately fatal cardiac medical emergency.
The Harford County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division is currently investigating Kenney’s death. A preliminary investigation indicates that he died of natural causes.
Sheriff’s Office Response
In a released statement, Harford County Sheriff Jeffrey Gahler emphasized the challenges of providing medical care within a correctional setting. “Individuals in our custody are often among the most medically compromised members of our community, and we take seriously our responsibility to safeguard their well-being,” Gahler said. He further praised the swift and professional actions of the Correctional Deputies and contracted medical staff, stating, “Ultimately, Mr. Kenney’s medical condition was not survivable; I am proud of their efforts and their commitment to the safety and care of every person entrusted to our custody.”
Throughout Kenney’s hospitalizations, he remained in the custody of the Harford County Detention Center.
