Horry County jail neglected inmate’s medical care for drug addition, lawsuit says

A former inmate is suing Horry County for denying medical care for her drug addiction while at J. Reuben Long Detention Center.

When Hazel Horton asked guards and medical staff at J. Reuben Long for help with her withdrawal symptoms, she was told they could only help her “if she was dying,” according to the lawsuit.

Brennan Cavanagh, spokesperson for Horry County Sheriff’s Department, said she could not comment on the pending lawsuit. Horry County spokesperson Mikayla Moskov did not comment and referred questions to Cavanagh.

Horton was transported to J. Reuben Long Detention Center on June 26, 2023, where served a 60-day sentence. During that time, she experienced seizures and severe abdominal pain, the suit said. She was given Tylenol after she told guards and medical staff about her pain and other symptoms.

On July 16, 2023, Horton was found unresponsive and determined to be in a postictal state, a temporary condition that happens after a seizure, at numerous times throughout the day.

The lawsuit also alleges guards at J. Reuben Long Detention Center hassled Horton and doubted her medical condition.

Horton is seeking actual damages for her physical injuries and emotional distress during her incarceration.