- January 11, 2025
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A Flagler County Sheriff’s Office inmate was hospitalized and later died two days after being placed in FCSO custody.
Michael Louis Springman, 54, was arrested in Volusia County on March 18 for an outstanding warrant. He was transferred to Flagler County’s jail on March 24, according to a press release from FCSO.
During the intake process, the jail’s medical staff placed Springman under a heightened medical watch because he had a recent hospitalization and “significant medical history exacerbated by a long period of illicit drug use,” the press release said. The medical watch included regular evaluations at increased intervals.
At 4 p.m. on March 25, Springman was evaluated and had no issues, the press release said, but just an hour later, staff returned and found he had “pronounced breathing difficulty.” Flagler County Fire Rescue was immediately called to bring Springman to the AdventHealth-Palm Coast hospital.
Springman’s health deteriorated at the hospital and on March 26, he was placed on life support, the press release said. His next of kin was notified and family chose to remove him from life support.
FCSO Court and Detention Services Chief Dan Engert said Springman’s death was truly unfortunate.
“So often, the local jails and prisons house the sickest population in the country, often caused by the significant use of illicit drugs and alcohol,” Engert said. “We extend our sympathy and condolences to Mr. Springman’s family.”
A warrant was signed for Springman’s arrest on March 8. He had been charged with possession of a controlled substance, driving while license suspended and possession of drug paraphernalia in Flagler County, the press release said. The 54-year-old had a record ranging over 20 years, the press release said.
The jail’s medical provider is conducting a required and thorough clinical mortality review and a Sheriff’s Office review will also be made, the press release said.
