Opinion No. 21-82 (1982)

Dear Senator Melton:

This letter is in response to your questions asking:

1. What duty does a law enforcement agency (city or county) have regarding medical attention for a person in legal custody; i.e., under arrest or incarcerated?

2. Who is responsible for initial payment for emergency treatment and transportation of the person in custody?

3. What duty does an ambulance service have to transport a prisoner when:

a. the illness is non-life-threatening and no payment can be expected; or

b. the agency with custody of the person refuses to send an accompanying officer with the ambulance?

4. In the…