A tragic incident at a mental health facility has led to a lawsuit that raises serious questions about patient care and safety. Marcia Sanborn, representing the estate of her deceased son Branden M. Sanborn, filed a complaint on October 4, 2024, in the Circuit Court for the Fifteenth Judicial Circuit in Palm Beach County, Florida, against South County Mental Health Center, Inc.
The lawsuit alleges that Branden Sanborn was taken to South County Mental Health Center (SCMHC) under the Baker Act on August 27, 2023, after he was reported to have been contemplating self-harm. The complaint states that despite his non-violent behavior upon arrival and during initial assessments, Branden was aggressively restrained by up to nine employees of SCMHC the following morning. This restraint allegedly resulted in him being pinned down and forcibly subdued for approximately 20 minutes without any prior de-escalation attempts by the staff. Tragically, Branden became limp and unresponsive during this time and was later pronounced dead at Delray Medical Center.
The autopsy report by the Associate District Medical Examiner noted "blunt force injuries" and listed the cause of death as "Sudden death during an agitated state from psychiatric disorders," with the manner of death as "Undetermined." The plaintiff's complaint argues that SCMHC violated several provisions of Florida's Baker Act, which mandates humane treatment for individuals admitted to mental health facilities. It claims that SCMHC failed to implement adequate training and policies regarding restraint procedures and did not respect Branden's dignity or rights as required by law.
Marcia Sanborn is seeking damages exceeding $50,000 for wrongful death under Florida’s Wrongful Death Act. She claims emotional distress for Branden’s survivors due to their loss and seeks compensation for economic damages sustained by his estate. The lawsuit demands a jury trial to determine liability and appropriate compensation.
Representing Marcia Sanborn is attorney Dennis L. Webb from the Law Offices of Dennis L. Webb, P.A., based in Fort Myers, Florida. The case number is: 502024CA009531 XXXAMB Div: AK.