BlueLivesMatterBY COVER WIFE
His insurance company, Tri-Star Risk Management, has threatened to stop funding his nursing assistants despite his inability to do most everyday things by himself, including going to the bathroom.
WFAA reports that Dallas SWAT Lieutenant Carlton Marshall was assisting federal officers in serving a warrant in October 2007. One resident, Marisella Villa, opened fire, striking Marshall in the neck. Villa, claimed she thought she was being robbed even though officers were shouting “Police” upon entry. She was sentenced to 45 years for the shooting. Villa’s boyfriend, Clayton Sharpless was also arrested and is currently serving a 20 year sentence in federal prison on drug charges. Marshall stood through the trial with honor, forgiving the woman responsible.
Carlton Marshall fought extensive health problems and his condition has continued to deteriorate, only furthering his need for care. Following the shooting he was in a wheelchair but could occasionally walk with a walker. Shortly afterwards, he suffered a stroke and contracted meningitis. High-dose antibiotics then caused deafness and he had to receive cochlear implants.
He has done his best to stay active and move forward, finding hobbies that include welding and golf. Marshall is able to get out on the course in a special chair that he bought himself. A local news station covered his progress and his newfound sense of hope in doing activities again outside of the house.
After the story aired is when Marshall received a letter from Tri-Star Risk Management, threatening to eliminate parts of his care. “It appears they feel that I am too active to need a certified nursing assistant,” he told WFAA. “They think that if I can play golf and if I can weld and I can do this and that that I am too able bodied to need the level of care that I need at this time.”
Overall Marshall cannot walk, can barely hear and as limited use of only one hand. Everyday tasks are all but impossible. For an insurance company to threaten to withdraw care from a hero who made a huge sacrifice for the community, and has serious medical needs as a result, is disgusting.
We would urge Tri-Star Risk Management to take another look at Carlton Marshall’s medical needs and ensure that this hero is taken care of.
Does your agency use Tri-Star Risk Management? You may want to ask your agency to look elsewhere, so you don’t end up in Lieutenant Marshall’s situation.