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County, sheriff settle with estate of woman whose death was attributed in part to 'medical neglect'
By Jonathan Bullington
Chicago Tribune
DuPage County and county Sheriff James Mendrick have reached an $11million settlement with the estate of Reneyda Aguilar-Hurtado, a 50-year-old mother who died in June 2023 after being held in the county jail for 85 days while awaiting transfer to a state-run mental health center.
Approved by a judge last month, the settlement caps a federal lawsuit brought by Aguilar-Hurtado's daughter, Cristal Moreno Aguilar, accusing the county, Mendrick and 11 jail medical staff members or corrections officers of repeatedly failing to act as her mother's health rapidly deteriorated.
A county pathologist determined her death was due, in part, to "medical neglect."
The nearly 50-page complaint, filed a month after Aguilar-Hurtado's death, cited about a dozen examples of other jail detainees some who died while on medical watch, others who have sued the jail over health care complaints -in alleging a "widespread practice and policy of deliberate in difference to the health and safety of critically ill inmates suffering from life-threatening conditions under their custody and control."
Mendrick, who recently announced his intent to forgo a third term as sheriff and instead seek the Republican nomination for Illinois governor in 2026, declined to comment through his spokesperson. So, too, did County Board Chair Deborah Conroy.
The defendants in court filings denied any wrongdoing.
"Reneyda's tragic death never should have happened," said Michael Mead, an attorney for the family, in a statement. "It was preventable and the loss that her family experienced cannot be made whole. We hope that the settlement provides justice and some closure for her family."
The $11 million payout is more than three times the combined cost of seven lawsuits involving the sheriff's office that have been settled in the last three years, according to records obtained by the Tribune through a Freedom of Information Act request. The largest, at $2.5 million, stemmed from a deputy's fatal shooting of a 17-year-old boy in 2017 —a shooting prosecutors determined was justified.
Additionally, legal fees related to lawsuits against the sheriff's office have exceeded $550,000 in the last three years, records show.
Advocates and attorneys who work with Illinois' mental health and criminal court systems previously told the Tribune that Aguilar-Hurtado's death exposed a confluence of long-standing failures: The continued overreliance on police as first responders in a mental health crisis. The limited community-based treatment options. The scarcity of beds tied largely to staffing shortages at state mental health hospitals.
All of that has forced vulnerable people like Aguilar-Hurtado into extended confinement in county jails that are often ill-equipped to care for them. And as her story laid bare, a jail's inability - or unwillingness, as her family alleged - to protect the people in its custody can shatter lives.
"People are landing in our jails in bad shape, physically and mentally, and they are too often made worse because of the conditions in jail," Amanda Antholt, a managing attorney with the nonprofit Equip for Equality, previously told the Tribune. "That's the problem we want to get at. We want them to be treated humanely and get the care they need to not be in jail or to survive their court process without getting hurt."
Aguilar-Hurtado, the mother of two children, had been previously hospitalized for treatment of schizophrenia when she was accused in July 2022 of kicking a woman in the leg at a grocery store near her home in west suburban Addison.
She was arrested and released from custody that same day and, shortly thereafter, voluntarily entered the state-run Elgin Mental Health Center for nearly five weeks of treatment. In the six months that followed her discharge, she missed four court dates. And by March 2023, she was in DuPage County Jail on a $10,000 bond.
The next month, a judge ruled she was unfit to stand trial on two misdemeanor battery counts and ordered that she return to a state mental hospital until he and doctors were satisfied she could understand the charges against her and confer with her public defender.
She remained in jail for 85 days while waiting to be transferred. Advocates called the delay a symptom of a chronic issue driven in part by decades of mental health center closures, staffing shortages and limited community resources.
On the morning of June 12, 2023, a DuPage sheriff's deputy opened the door to cell 1-G-04 and found Aguilar-Hurtado on her mattress. A sheriff's incident report describes her as cold and unresponsive.
Medical staff at the hospital were able to revive her, a deputy coroner wrote in his report, but after she "suffered cardiac arrest several times," there was nothing more they could do. Weighing nearly 200 pounds at the time of her incarceration, she had lost close to 60 pounds while in jail.
The county's chief forensic pathologist determined Aguilar-Hurtado died of "multisystem organ failure" caused by "failure to thrive due to psychotic disorder."
"Acute esophageal necrosis, self-neglect and medical neglect contributed significantly to her death," the pathologist wrote in her report, adding that Aguilar-Hurtado arrived at the hospital with "physical signs of acute illness for days prior without significant medical intervention."
Aguilar-Hurtado is one of 13 DuPage County Jail detainees who died between January 2014 and September 2024, according to a Tribune review of to submit to the state Department of Corrections and county coroner records.
Five people whose death records were reviewed by the Tribune appear to have been on medical watch at the time of their deaths. Among them was Sebastiano Ceraulo, 21, whose Jan. 8, 2016, death resulted in a federal lawsuit settled in 2019.
Another death shares similarities to Aguilar-Hurtado's. Lance Thomas, 60, had been behind bars for nearly two months when, on June 24, 2020, a deputy noticed he did not collect his lunch tray. The deputy checked on Thomas and discovered he wasn't breathing.
A coroner's report notes that Thomas had been diagnosed with schizophrenia, had refused breakfast that morning, would not take his medications, and was "markedly thin and frail and had urinated on himself." He was supposed to have weekly weight checks but the coroner's investigator couldn't find the results.
Aguilar-Hurtado's family lawsuit also included nine other examples of jail detainees who have accused the jail of providing inadequate medical care. Most stem from alleged incidents that predate Mendrick as sheriff. Five have led to settled lawsuits.
"We believe that DuPage County has recognized the systemic failures and biases that allowed this tragedy to occur," Mead, the family's attorney, said in a statement. "We are encouraged that officials have made real and substantial changes in how they monitor and care for detainees with mental illness, with changes to training, administrative oversight, and policies and procedures for urgently transferring detainees to hospitals."
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 22, 2026 Media Contact Information: Aaron Franco, communications director (312) 520-9802 aaronfranco@isms.org
CHICAGO – Tripti C. Kataria, M.D., M.B.A., M.P.H., is the new president of the Illinois State Medical Society (ISMS) following its recent annual meeting. Dr. Kataria will become the first woman of color to hold this office. Dr. Kataria earned her medical degree at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, then completed an anesthesiology residency at Brigham & Women’s Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts followed by a fellowship in cardiothoracic anesthesiology at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York. She also earned an M.P.H. in Health Policy and Management from Harvard University and an M.B.A. from the University of Michigan. As a part of Physician Anesthesia Consultants physician group, Dr. Kataria practices as an independent attending anesthesiologist at community teaching hospitals, free-standing surgical centers and private physician offices throughout the Chicagoland area. She has been an active member of ISMS for more than 15 years, most recently serving as president-elect. She has also served as speaker, vice speaker and chair of the Governmental Affairs Council. Dr. Kataria is actively involved in leadership roles within the American Medical Association (AMA), American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA), and the Illinois Society of Anesthesiology (ISA), where she previously served as President from 2020-2021. Dr. Kataria’s term as president will run through April 2027.
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Founded in 1840, ISMS is a professional membership association representing Illinois physicians in all medical specialties, and their patients, statewide.
CHICAGO – The outstanding contributions and commitment of three Illinois physicians were recognized by the Illinois State Medical Society (ISMS) during its annual meeting this past weekend. The doctors are recipients of awards that celebrate the achievements of Illinois physicians in the fields of medicine, education, advocacy and volunteering. These three physicians were chosen for recognition among the many quality nominations received. Physician of the Year An addiction medicine physician whose advocacy and education work have had a profound impact on the community, Ruchi Fitzgerald, M.D., is the recipient of the 2026 ISMS Physician of the Year award. Dr. Fitzgerald is the service chief for PCC Community Wellness Center-MacNeal Hospital’s addiction medicine consult service and an associate professor in the Department of Family and Preventive Medicine at Rush Medical College. As a family physician and addiction medicine specialist, she has expanded the scope of services for pregnant women experiencing substance use disorder across diverse settings. She has spent her career focused on advancing equitable addiction treatment, reducing the stigma of addiction for new mothers and increasing access to evidence-based treatment for underserved communities, including those on Chicago’s West Side. Beyond the hospital setting, she has contributed clinical expertise to policy reforms regarding perinatal substance use disorder treatment in Illinois and served as a subject matter expert for the White House Office on National Drug Control Policy. Physician Leader of the Year A nationally recognized educator, researcher and specialist in pediatric infectious diseases, Archana Chatterjee, M.D., PhD, is the recipient of the 2026 ISMS Physician Leader of the Year award. As Dean of the Chicago Medical School and Senior Vice President for Medical Affairs at Rosalind Franklin University, she ushered the institution through the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic and secured the school’s first eight-year Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME) accreditation in over two decades. Under her tenure, the school also saw increased student enrollment, expanded clinical partnerships across multiple states and the tripling of endowed scholarships for under-resourced students. Dr. Chatterjee is a nationally recognized authority in pediatric infectious diseases and vaccinology, serving on the FDA’s Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee and multiple other advisory bodies. Throughout her 30-year career, she has coauthored over 200 peer-reviewed publications and led more than 120 clinical trials, contributing to the licensure of many life-saving vaccines used worldwide. Her selection also recognizes a trailblazing career: Dr. Chatterjee is the first woman and person of color to serve in her current role, and she is the first woman of South Asian descent to serve as dean of a LCME-accredited medical school. Physician Volunteer of the Year For his work as an orthopedic surgeon and for his commitment to expanding global access to specialty surgical care, Andre Ivy, M.D., is the recipient of the 2026 ISMS Volunteer Physician of the Year award. Dr. Ivy is an orthopedic surgeon at Duly Health and Care who specializes in hand and upper-extremity surgery. An international fellowship in the East African country of Tanzania led him to found a nonprofit called HandZania in 2019. Since then, Dr. Ivy has worked to bridge the gap in surgical care for a country that previously lacked a single specialized hand surgeon. Through the nonprofit, Dr. Ivy conducts recurring training missions and provides long-term mentorship to local surgeons in Tanzania. His exchange model also brings Tanzanian surgeons to the United States for three-month immersions, where they live with his family, train at his practice and travel around the country learning from other hand surgeons. A graduate of the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Dr. Ivy views international service as one way to make an impact on the world while embodying the highest professional ideals of service, education and humility.
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ISMS recognizes physicians in these award categories every year at its annual meeting for members. These awards were created to recognize and show appreciation for individual Illinois physicians for their commitment to serving their patients and community. If you know of an Illinois physician who should be nominated for a future award, please contact our Membership Division by email. Founded in 1840, ISMS is a professional membership association representing Illinois physicians in all medical specialties, and their patients, statewide.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 15, 2026 Media Contact Information: Carrie Skogsberg (309) 821-4175 news@countryfinancial.com
As planting season begins and farmers head back into the fields, COUNTRY Financial is encouraging the agricultural community to prioritize safety and check on farm insurance coverages. Taking proactive steps now can help reduce accidents, prevent breakdowns and protect farm operations during one of the busiest times of the year. COUNTRY received more than 180 farm equipment collision claims between the months of March and June 2025. These claims include collisions on the road with other vehicles, as well as collisions with buildings or other equipment on the farm. “The planting window is short, and farmers can’t afford to lose time to setbacks from accidents, which unfortunately can happen when rushed or not prepared,” said Zack Hinthorn, agribusiness underwriter at COUNTRY. “Taking time now, before the rush begins, keeps farmers safe and operations running smoothly.” Hinthorn shares the following tips for a safe and successful planting season: Improve visibility on the road
Accidents involving farm equipment often occur at dawn or dusk during peak commuting hours, especially when motorists attempt to pass slow-moving vehicles or do not anticipate turns or stops. Use flashing lights, ensure reflective tape and Slow-Moving Vehicle emblems are clean and confirm all lights are functioning properly to help maximize visibility and reduce risk. Remember to use turn signals, as drivers often misinterpret a tractor moving to the right side of the road before making a left turn.
Drivers should plan ahead during the busy planting season, remembering that farmers will be on the road and allowing for extra time. Slow down, stay focused on the road and look for the lights on farm vehicles. Prepare equipment Equipment malfunctions are a common cause of farm accidents. Thoroughly inspect and maintain all farm equipment before hitting the fields. Regular maintenance such as checking worn parts, replacing filters and lubricating moving components can reduce unexpected breakdowns and improve overall safety. Take extra caution when handling chemicals Chemical safety is another critical focus during planting season. Review safe handling procedures for fertilizers, pesticides and other hazardous materials with all farm workers to help ensure everyone is aligned on proper protocols. Have Safety Data Sheets (SDS) on-hand in case of emergency and ensure the use of personal protective equipment, including gloves, goggles and masks. “Safety on the farm isn’t just about equipment—it’s about awareness, communication and looking out for one another,” Hinthorn said. “Refreshing safety practices each season helps prevent injuries and protects everyone involved.” Prevent theft Theft of tools, chemicals and other personal property is common during planting season and can occur when equipment is left unlocked in the field, and when farmers are in and out of sheds frequently and don’t close and lock the doors. Take time to ensure valuable items are secured. Check insurance coverage and review extra coverage options Farmers should check their farm insurance coverages to be sure they have the right endorsements and coverages. For example, with Extra Expense coverage, a farmer who has a covered loss on a piece of equipment may be able to receive additional payment to rent equipment and resume operations. Farmers who sell seed corn need to purchase additional coverage. Check farm inventory lists to be sure they are accurate and up-to-date, especially if you have sold or purchased new equipment. Meeting with an insurance agent to discuss equipment, buildings, livestock, crops and employees can help ensure proper protections are in place and that any recent changes to operations are addressed. Take care of your health Finally, farmers are encouraged to prioritize their health and wellbeing. Long hours and physical demands can take a toll, making it important to take breaks, eat healthy meals, get enough rest and understand how medications may affect alertness. Let family members or employees know where you’re working and keep a phone or walkie‑talkie nearby in case of emergency. Taking time to prepare for a safe planting season helps prevent accidents, reduce stress and protect against the unexpected. COUNTRY Financial has been protecting farms for more than 100 years and has more than 400 Farm Certified representatives ready to serve farmers’ crop, farm and liability insurance needs. For more information, visit countryfinancial.com/farm. Policies issued by COUNTRY Mutual Insurance Company®, Bloomington, IL, an equal opportunity provider.
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