Family Files Federal Lawsuit Alleging Excessive Force in L.A. County Jail Neck Injury and Death

In a significant legal development, the family of Jeffrey Fairchild has filed a federal lawsuit against Los Angeles County and a sheriff’s deputy, Eric Barraza, alleging that excessive force used in September 2024 at the Twin Towers Correctional Facility caused Fairchild’s broken neck and eventual death in April 2025. The lawsuit claims that the deputy violently slammed Fairchild face-first into a metal window frame, causing catastrophic spinal injuries that left him quadriplegic.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department has denied wrongdoing, asserting that the force used was reasonable and conducted in good faith. However, federal court-appointed monitors have challenged the department’s account, citing video evidence that contradicts the official narrative and describing the use of force as preventable and out of compliance with safety standards.

Key Takeaways

• The lawsuit alleges that Deputy Eric Barraza used excessive and unreasonable force, breaking Jeffrey Fairchild’s neck while he was walking away, not charging.
• Federal monitors’ report highlights discrepancies between the Sheriff’s Department’s account and video evidence, finding the force used was preventable and violated safety protocols.
• The case underscores ongoing concerns about use-of-force practices and accountability within Los Angeles County jails despite longstanding oversight efforts.

Background of the Incident at Twin Towers Correctional Facility

Jeffrey Fairchild was incarcerated at the Twin Towers Correctional Facility in Los Angeles County after being arrested for violating parole related to a prior conviction. On September 12, 2024, while in custody, Fairchild was subjected to a use of force incident involving Deputy Eric Barraza. According to federal monitors overseeing the Sheriff’s Department, Barraza slammed Fairchild face-first into a metal window frame, causing him to fall onto a concrete floor.

The impact resulted in a broken neck and left Fairchild quadriplegic. He was hospitalized and remained under medical care until his death on April 21, 2025, from complications including a heart attack. The family alleges that the deputy’s actions were excessive and unreasonable, leading to wrongful death.

Details of the Lawsuit and Department Response

The Fairchild family filed the lawsuit in September 2025 in U.S. District Court in Los Angeles, naming Los Angeles County, Deputy Barraza, and unnamed deputies present during the incident. The complaint alleges excessive force and wrongful death stemming from the deputy’s conduct. The Sheriff’s Department responded by denying any wrongdoing, stating that the force used was reasonable under the circumstances and without malicious intent.

Internal department investigations reportedly found that Barraza failed to use de-escalation tactics before applying force and disciplined a sergeant for post-incident assessment failures. However, federal monitors criticized the department for not disciplining Barraza for the actual use of force and for allowing misrepresentations during the investigation to go unaddressed.

Use of Force and Evidence Disputes Highlight Accountability Issues

The federal monitors’ report is central to the legal dispute, revealing significant differences between the Sheriff’s Department’s version of events and video evidence. While the department claimed Fairchild charged at the deputy, the monitors found he was walking away when force was applied. The takedown was described as swift, violent, and preventable, violating established safety standards.

This case highlights the challenges in investigating use-of-force incidents within correctional facilities, including the importance of preserving and reviewing video evidence, assessing the reasonableness of force, and ensuring accountability. The ongoing scrutiny of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s practices reflects broader concerns about systemic issues in jail safety and inmate treatment.

Why This Case Matters for Personal Injury and Wrongful Death Litigation

The Fairchild lawsuit underscores the complexities involved in personal injury and wrongful death claims arising from incidents in correctional settings. It illustrates how disputed liability, conflicting evidence, and institutional responses can shape litigation outcomes. Cases like this also emphasize the need to identify all responsible parties, including individual officers and government entities, and to evaluate available insurance coverage and damages related to catastrophic injuries and loss of life.

For California residents, this case serves as a reminder that claims involving public entities and law enforcement require careful navigation of administrative procedures, federal oversight, and civil rights considerations. Los Angeles County personal injury attorneys often address these multifaceted issues to protect victims’ rights.

Frequently Asked Questions

What legal claims are typically involved in lawsuits against sheriff’s departments for use of force?

Such lawsuits often include claims of excessive force, negligence, and wrongful death under federal civil rights laws and state tort law.

How does video evidence impact use-of-force cases in jails?

Video footage can provide objective documentation that supports or contradicts official accounts, playing a critical role in establishing liability and disproving false statements.

What challenges exist in holding law enforcement accountable for jail injuries?

Challenges include institutional resistance, limited transparency, qualified immunity defenses, and difficulties in obtaining internal records and disciplinary actions.

Can families seek damages for wrongful death resulting from jail incidents?

Yes, families may pursue wrongful death claims to recover damages for losses such as medical expenses, funeral costs, and loss of companionship.

If you or a loved one has suffered serious injury or wrongful death in a correctional facility, consider consulting experienced attorneys for a free case review.

Original reporting on this case is available from the Los Angeles Times: A man’s neck was broken in an L.A. County jail. His family is suing the Sheriff’s Department.