In a statement released on Thursday, Nov. 9, Sheriff Jesse Jahner stated that the North Dakota Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation is conducting an investigation into the handling of the woman’s case.
Cass County Sheriff Jesse Jahner responded to allegations of neglect concerning a woman who spent nearly a month in jail, as circulated on social media
While not disclosing the woman’s identity due to medical privacy laws, Sheriff Jesse Jahner revealed that she was booked into Cass County Jail on Oct. 11 at 5:30 a.m., following a disturbance reported to Fargo police. It was suspected that she was under the influence of substances.
Initially held for intoxication management, which allows for up to a 24-hour hold, the woman exhibited aggressive behavior at a local hospital, resulting in her arrest for simple assault. On Oct. 12, jail staff implemented suicide precautions based on her verbal statements, relocating her to a padded cell with frequent monitoring. Collaborating with Southeast Human Services, the jail attempted to refer her to the State Hospital on Oct. 17, but it had no available space.
A competency evaluation order for the assault charge was signed on Oct. 18, potentially securing her a place at the State Hospital
However, on Monday, her health deteriorated, prompting her transfer to a local hospital, as the State Hospital still lacked space. The Cass County State’s Attorney’s Office subsequently dismissed the assault charge. Sheriff Jesse Jahner addressed the situation after a social media post alleged neglect, describing the woman’s condition as severely compromised. Sheriff Jesse Jahner confirmed in his statement that the woman sporadically consumed food.
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