Lawsuit: Woman, 31, Died in Strafford County Jail, Was Denied Medical Care

A federal lawsuit claims gross negligence led to the death of 31-year-old Alyssa Burson while she was in custody at Strafford County House of Corrections, claims the county denies.

Burson, of Dover, was found dead in her cell July 8, 2020.

The lawsuit filed on behalf of her family and her then-infant son alleges jail officials and members of the Somersworth Police Department refused to get medical help for Burson, even though she pleaded for help for almost 16 hours, and had a known medical condition.

The city of Somersworth denies claims against the police as well.

She died in a bare cell, equipped only with a sleeping mat, according to the lawsuit.