Resident says county failed to follow involuntary emergency admission process for family member at jail; commissioners acknowledge complaint

A Rockingham County resident told commissioners during the Sept. 11 public comment period that her sister did not receive appropriate care after an involuntary emergency admission (IEA) and asked for an explanation of the jail's IEA procedures and follow‑up.

The commenter, Jessica Lee, said she completed IEA paperwork on Aug. 2 with Center for Life Management, brought the forms to the jail when her sister was arrested the same day, and later was told by county staff that the IEA paperwork was not certified or was out of compliance. Lee said her sister was left in a holding cell for nine days during a psychotic episode, had lights on continuously, lacked access to routine hygiene and did not receive an appropriate level of care. She said she sought help from NAMI New Hampshire and the state Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), which led to an expedited transfer to a state hospital.

Commissioners thanked Lee for her comment, said they were "appalled" by the account and confirmed they had heard from the superintendent of corrections (Superintendent Henry) regarding the situation. The chair offered to follow up directly and asked staff to work with state DHHS contacts; commissioners and staff also noted they would review how the county logs and responds to IEA paperwork and complaints.

Why it matters: The complaint raises questions about how the county handles mental‑health crises in custody and the procedures and timelines for involuntary emergency admissions, transfers and care inside the corrections facility.

Ending: Commissioners acknowledged the seriousness of the allegations and indicated staff and the superintendent would follow up with the commenter and with state agencies as appropriate; no formal action or vote on the complaint was taken during the meeting.