I am appalled and saddened to learn that the suicide of Alexander Ricardo Braid could have been prevented.
I am not a mental health expert, though I do have friends that struggle with mental illness, and am keenly aware of what it takes for them to function on a daily basis. My previous employment for 30 years as a bus driver for MTD resulted in my ability to recognize individuals with mental and emotional issues. I learned to recognize behavior that was non-threatening, and behavior that was potentially harmful. I relied on law enforcement in several instances that required intervention to prevent harm to myself and my passengers.
The obvious self-destructive behavior displayed by Mr. Braid during transport should have alerted the officers to transport him to be evaluated prior to being booked and placed in a general population cell.
I trust the findings of the Grand Jury will result in immediate changes.
