East Central Reporter

Shelby County Sheriff Brian McReynolds is facing a civil rights lawsuit related to medical issues, filed by Chad Hammond, an inmate in the Illinois Department of Corrections. The lawsuit, initiated in March 2023, accuses McReynolds and others of violating Hammond's Fourteenth Amendment rights due to their actions or lack thereof concerning his medical condition.

The case bears similarities to another involving former Sheriff Don Koonce, with McReynolds being sued in his personal capacity. Charges against him in his official capacity have been dismissed.

Federal Judge Sue E Myerscough noted that the plaintiff "has alleged enough facts to proceed with a Fourteenth Amendment claim against Defendants Duran, McReynolds, and Stephens for their respective acts or omissions regarding Plaintiff’s medical condition." The defendants are being sued individually.

In a recent development, US Magistrate Judge Karen McNaught denied McReynolds' motion to prevent Hammond from filing Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests. Judge McNaught stated: "The motion of defendant McReynolds to preclude plaintiff from making requests pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act 89 is DENIED."

Hammond's request for court-appointed counsel has also been rejected. As this legal matter progresses through the courts, further updates will be provided.