Apparent inmate suicide investigated

Authorities are investigating the death of an inmate who was found Saturday evening with a bedsheet around his neck at the West County Detention Facility in Richmond.

Gregory Lynds, 42, of Antioch was unresponsive when a deputy opened his door at 6: 15 p. m. so that he could speak with a mental health clinician. He was pronounced dead after emergency responders and jail medical staff attempted to perform lifesaving measures.

Police arrested Lynds and booked him into jail on Oct. 2. He was held on two felony counts of elder abuse, along with two felony counts of battery on a peace officer, assault with a deadly weapon and a parole violation.

The Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office did not immediately respond to a request for information on the status of Lynds’ case, including whether a trial date had been scheduled.

The Contra Costa County district attorney’s office and Sheriff’s Office are leading the investigation into what they have deemed an apparent suicide.

Earlier this month, Contra Costa County agreed to a settlement that compels the county to spend $ 250 million over five years to improve conditions for physically and mentally ill inmates. It stemmed from a lawsuit filed by inmates, which presents scenes of cruel treatment and deliberate indifference at the jail.

One plaintiff said guards refused to seek medical help after he repeatedly pressed the “emergency medical” button on his cell, and instead admonished him to stop.