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Shantel Taylor recounts that when her son’s medication is properly adjusted, he embodies the person she remembers – cheerful, spontaneous, and always sharing a laugh.
However, on December 11, 2023, her son, Kai’Yere Campbell, experienced a manic episode, which was a departure from his usual demeanor. Campbell had been diagnosed with an intellectual developmental disability and autism at the age of two. Later, in August 2021, he was diagnosed with schizophrenia.
In September 2023, he began residing at a group home. However, in December of the same year, Campbell was involved in an incident where, according to court documents, he struck an elderly worker with his hand. Despite efforts by the group home staff to have him transported to a hospital for treatment, Campbell was instead taken to the Tarrant County Jail.
While a spokesperson for the group home, citing HIPAA laws, couldn’t comment on Campbell’s case specifically, they mentioned that they only involve law enforcement in transporting a patient to the hospital when their own company vehicle is unavailable. They clarified that they never request patients to be taken to jail.
Campbell faces charges of “knowingly” causing bodily injury, prompting concerns from Taylor about his well-being in the jail environment. She expressed her determination to secure his transfer to a State-Supported Living Center (SSLC) for proper care.
United Fort Worth, an advocacy group, launched a petition urging Campbell’s judge to dismiss his case and calling on the District Attorney, Phil Sorrell, to drop the charges. They also called for intervention from Campbell’s provider, My Health My Resources (MHMR).
While MHMR refrained from commenting on Campbell’s case specifically, they acknowledged their involvement in assisting individuals with mental disabilities in jail and facilitating their transition to appropriate services.
The District Attorney’s office explained that Campbell has been ordered to a state mental hospital for competency restoration, as recommended by an expert psychologist. This treatment is expected to last up to 120 days.
However, advocates argue that competency restoration is not equivalent to mental healthcare and assert that Campbell’s intellectual disability requires a different approach. Taylor expressed concerns about the effectiveness of competency restoration for her son.
Amidst fears regarding Campbell’s well-being in light of previous inmate deaths in the Tarrant County Jail, advocates urge swift action from the authorities to ensure his safety and well-being.
In response, the Sheriff’s Office emphasized that Campbell is receiving adequate care in the jail and refuted allegations of neglect. They assured that he is closely monitored, provided with specialized meals, and has regular family visits.