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New Law Takes Effect Sat. Making It Easier To Investigate Inmate Deaths, Use-Of-Force

MGN Online

A new law takes effect Saturday that would allow a state law enforcement agency to better conduct investigations into the treatment of Florida prison inmates.

A few years ago, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement was tasked with investigating use-of-force incidents and conducting death investigations involving Florida inmates. But, at times, FDLE Commissioner Rick Swearingen says they’ve encountered some roadblocks.

“An important part of these investigations are the inmate’s medical records,” he said, at a Cabinet meeting. “Currently, there are three ways our investigators may obtain this information: written consent, subpoena with notice, and search warrant. Each of the three significantly inhibits our ability to conduct efficient and effective investigations.”

So, among the new law’s many provisions is one to allow Florida prison staff to provide inmate medical or treatment records to FDLE investigators for official purposes only.

For more news updates, follow Sascha Cordner on Twitter: @SaschaCordner.

Sascha Cordner has more than ten years of public radio experience. It includes working at NPR member station WUFT-FM in Gainesville for several years. She's worked in both radio and TV, serving in various capacities as a reporter, producer and anchor. She's also a graduate of the University of Florida with a bachelor's degree in telecommunications. She is the recipient of 15 awards from the Associated Press, Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ), and Edward R. Murrow. Her award-winning stories include her coverage on the infamous “Dozier School for Boys” and a feature titled "Male Breast Cancer: Lost in the Sea of Pink." Currently, Sascha serves as the host and producer of local and state news content for the afternoon news program "All Things Considered" at WFSU. Sascha primarily covers criminal justice and social services issues. When she's not reporting, Sascha likes catching up on her favorite TV shows, singing and reading. Follow Sascha Cordner on Twitter:@SaschaCordner.