Nevada Inmate's Death Ruled Homicide After Restraint Incident
An autopsy report reveals a Nevada prisoner died from asphyxia during restraint by guards. The incident, involving pepper spray and questionable restraint methods, raises concerns about prison practices.
In a troubling incident at Southern Desert Correctional Center near Las Vegas, Patrick Odale, a 39-year-old inmate, lost his life on December 28, 2023. The Clark County coroner's office has ruled his death a homicide, attributing it to positional and mechanical asphyxia during law enforcement restraint.
The autopsy report, finalized in late August 2024, sheds light on the circumstances surrounding Odale's death. According to the document, guards pepper-sprayed Odale and confined him to a storage room containing yard tools. Subsequently, they restrained him face-down with his hands shackled behind his back.
The report indicates that low levels of methamphetamine and xylazine, an animal sedative, were present in Odale's system. These substances were described as "major contributors" to his death. The presence of these drugs raises questions about their accessibility within the correctional facility.
Michael Freeman, a forensic pathology expert not involved in the investigation, explained that mechanical and positional asphyxia typically occurs when a person is restrained face-down with their hands behind their back, with pressure applied to their torso, arms, or neck.
The Nevada Department of Corrections has been notably reticent about the incident. When announcing Odale's death in January 2024, they omitted crucial details, including the fact that he was restrained. The department has declined to comment on the autopsy report, citing an ongoing investigation.
"Finally we get to see each other!"
These were Odale's words to his children just three days before his death, according to Amy Estrada, the mother of his young son and daughter. Tragically, the long-awaited visit never took place. Estrada described Odale as a kind-hearted person and loving father, always ready to help those in need.
The autopsy report raises concerns about potential gaps in the surveillance footage of the incident. The medical examiner noted that after a period showing Odale groaning while face-down and shackled, there was a gap in the video. When coverage resumed, Odale was face-up with his hands shackled in front, and staff were performing CPR.
As of September 7, 2024, many questions remain unanswered. The Nevada Attorney General's office has not responded to inquiries about a potential investigation into the guards involved. The incident highlights the need for transparency and accountability in correctional facilities, as well as the importance of proper training in de-escalation techniques and safe restraint methods for prison staff.
