Is It A Good Idea For Rex Heuermann To Be OFF Suicide Watch?

The recent episode of the popular "Hidden Killers" podcast
brought to light the complex matter of suicide watch in jails,
specifically focusing on the case of Rex Heuermann. Tony Brueski,
the show's host, dives deep into the topic with psychologist Dr.
John Delatorre.
 
Rex Heuermann's case has drawn attention due to the recent
decision to take him off suicide watch. Tony questioned the
wisdom behind this move, considering the potentially damning
circumstances around Heuermann, wondering aloud if "he may be
someone who would want to end it."
 
Delatorre shared the complexity behind such decisions,
explaining, “The problem with the suicide watch is that it's too
taxing on the resources of the facility.” He further elaborated
that while Heuermann needs monitoring, he doesn’t necessarily
need the stringent conditions of suicide watch.
 
When asked about the specific conditions and protocols
surrounding suicide watch, Delatorre detailed, “When someone's on
suicide watch, not only are there more frequent looks at his
cell... they're also put in a smock.” This vest-like smock, often
seen in crime-related documentaries, is primarily designed to
prevent self-harm.
 
As the conversation progressed, Brueski sought clarity on how
decisions are made regarding an inmate's placement on or removal
from suicide watch. Delatorre explained that usually a "medical
doctor" is responsible for such decisions, in consultation with
the facility's main security officers.
 
The episode also touched upon the lack of family visits for
Heuermann, and the attempts of public members, likely true crime
enthusiasts, to interact with him. Such visits were, however,
declined by Heuermann, indicating his reluctance or perhaps his
understanding of the gravity of his situation.
 
In a turn to the collateral damage from crime investigations, the
podcast also discussed claims made by Heuermann’s family against
law enforcement concerning a raid on their home. They reported
damaged beds, destroyed drain pipes, and general disorder,
speculating on the possibility of their home being a hoarder
house prior to the raid.
 
In answering Brueski’s query about the family's potential case
against law enforcement, Delatorre commented, "I think a lot of
that's gonna depend on what the warrant says.” He elaborated on
the intricacies of warrants and probable cause statements,
suggesting that if officers overstepped their permissions, the
family could potentially have a legal argument.
 
However, the foundation of any such case will lie in the
specifics of the warrant, Delatorre noted. If the warrant was
broad, allowing officers to search any part of the home, the
family's claims might not hold much weight. However, if it was
restrictive, only allowing for a search of particular rooms or
areas, the family might have grounds for a case.
 
The episode paints a vivid picture of the complexities
surrounding criminal investigations, the treatment of those
accused, and the potential collateral damage to their families.
Both Brueski and Delatorre effectively highlight the balance
between the rights of the accused, the safety of the community,
and the efficient operation of law enforcement agencies.
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