EspañolSettlement Following a Fatal Cellmate Attack at West Valley Detention Center
Carrillo Law Firm obtained a $7,999,999 settlement in the case arising from the death of 25-year-old Jorge Antonio Diaz Millan after a cellmate attacked him at West Valley Detention Center. Diaz Millan, who had a documented history of serious mental illness, was attacked on October 6, 2021, and died from his injuries on October 11.
The family’s case focused on dangerous housing decisions and ignored warnings. The cellmate had repeatedly assaulted other inmates and had been classified for housing alone. Plaintiffs alleged that staff downgraded that classification without adequately reviewing his history and then placed him with Diaz Millan, whose own mental health needs required protective attention.
Before the attack, the cellmate told jail staff that he felt suicidal and might hurt others. Plaintiffs also pointed to calls for help from neighboring cells and delays in intervention and medical aid. The settlement resolved claims arising from failures to protect Diaz Millan and the devastating loss suffered by his son, wife, and parents.
