Family Demands Accountability After Alexander Rios Killed In Richland Jail
Alexander Rios was a pre-trial detainee at Richland County Jail when he was attacked and killed by jail staff.
Cleveland, Ohio (February 12, 2021) – Alexander Rios, a pre-trial detainee at Richland County Jail in September 2019, was attacked and killed by guards less than 24 hours after his detainment. Video released by the jail shows inexcusable, gratuitous violence perpetrated by guards that ultimately led to the death of Rios.
More than a year later and the family still has no answers about why this level of force was used and no criminal charges have been filed against the guards. Marcus Sidoti and Sarah Gelsomino of Friedman, Gilbert + Gerhardstein, along with co-counsel J.C. and Rocky Ratliff, are representing Rios’ family, which include his mother, step-father and Rios’ young children.
“Rios needed mental health support, and in his hour of need, he was brutally attacked with a shocking and flagrant disregard for his life and well-being by corrections officers. These officers should have been fired on the spot. For a department to allow this behavior without consequence shows very deep and concerning approval of dangerous and unconstitutional behavior.”
Rios’ family deserves answers and accountability of the officers responsible for his death.