Former Blount County Correctional Officers Joseph Evans and Liletzy Valdez-Carbajal Released on Bond After Inmate Death Indictment
Joseph Evans and Liletzy Valdez Carbahal each received a $75,000 bond Wednesday, July 15 at an Aniah’s Law hearing, Liletzy Valdez-Carbajal, left and Joseph Evans, right.(Blount County Sheriff’s office)
Since they posted bond, they cannot hold a job that involves custody and control over a person – for example, as a corrections officer or a medic. They also would not be allowed to travel out of state, and their bond would be supervised by pardons and paroles, the judge ruled.
During Evans’ hearing, state prosecutors said inmate Arthur Morse was in medical need for four days, with witnesses describing him vomiting a dark fluid. Prosecutors also told the court Morse’s blood sugar was in the 300–500 range, and by the time he arrived at UAB Hospital, it was in the 800 range.
The state alleges Evans not only disregarded Morse’s medical needs, but showed a pattern of punishing him for being unable to stand, walk, eat, as well as urinating on himself.
Prosecutors allege Evans also forced Morse during this time to mop the booking area and put him in a restraint chair, in addition to tasing him multiple times.
Prosecutors also said they have evidence indicating Valdez Carbajal actively participated in the assault.
“Inmates should be provided medical care and force should only be used when necessary,” said District Attorney Pam Casey following the hearing. “You can look at the indictments and see he was clearly having a medical event.”
WBRC reached out to attorneys representing both Valdez Carbajal and Evans for comment.
Attorneys representing Evans said in a statement: “We understand the public interest in this matter. However, out of respect for the integrity of the legal process and our client’s rights, we will not comment on the specifics of the case at this time.”
Attorneys representing Valdez Carbajal offered the following statement:
“The bond set today by the Blount County Circuit Judge for Ms. Valdez is within the normal range for cases of this nature, and Ms. Valdez is appreciative of the Court’s decision,” said lawyer Stan Glasscox, who, along with lawyer Brian White, represents Valdez Carbajal.
“Ms. Valdez is not guilty of the charges that have been brought against her,” said White. “And as with every person accused of a crime, Ms. Valdez is presumed innocent unless and until the State proves her guilt beyond a reasonable doubt in a public jury trial.”
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