In a heart-wrenching incident, the family of Monica Cannady and her two young sons, who tragically succumbed to hypothermia in January 2023, has taken legal action against three deputies and the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office. The lawsuit accuses these officials of gross negligence, claiming they failed to conduct an adequate search despite knowing the family was in peril. The case highlights concerns about mental health response and the adequacy of law enforcement actions.
Allegations of Negligence and Inaction
The lawsuit filed in federal court asserts that Monica Cannady, along with her children Kyle Milton, aged 9, and Malik Milton, aged 3, had been wandering outside for nearly two days as Cannady experienced a severe mental health crisis. According to the complaint, deputies Alex Kazal, John Brish, and Devon Bernritter acted with gross negligence, failing to initiate a thorough search for the missing family members. The suit also claims that Deputy Bernritter exacerbated Cannady's condition during encounters at Pontiac McLaren Hospital.
The allegations delve deeper into specific instances of misconduct. For example, it is alleged that Deputy Kazal expressed frustration and disdain over the search efforts, even questioning the necessity of searching diligently. During a recorded 16-minute phone call captured on his body camera, Kazal reportedly complained about wanting to engage in "real police work" and dismissed the urgency of the situation, suggesting that the children would be fine and that people in Pontiac do not just die from cold weather. These statements have fueled accusations of indifference and improper conduct.
Response from Law Enforcement and Ongoing Controversy
The Oakland County Sheriff’s Office vehemently denies any wrongdoing, stating that numerous efforts were made to assist the family. They argue that Cannady refused all attempts by deputies to help and that there was no legal basis to detain the family. Despite this stance, the department acknowledges that some statements made by one former deputy did not align with their standards of conduct, leading to an internal investigation that resulted in the deputy's resignation before disciplinary review could be completed.
The lawsuit has been divided into two parts: one representing the estates of Monica Cannady and her deceased children, and another on behalf of Cannady’s surviving daughter, identified as Jane Doe. This legal battle underscores broader issues surrounding mental health crises and the responsibilities of law enforcement in such situations. As the case progresses, it raises important questions about the adequacy of emergency responses and the need for improved protocols to prevent similar tragedies in the future.