Jordan Hunkin, a Marine veteran, began withdrawing from his family in 2015 after leaving the military. His service left him with head injuries, PTSD, and depression, which led him to seek help.
In February 2023, Jordan went to the Malcom Randall VA hospital for treatment. He thought he was attending a special program, but instead, he was detained under the Baker Act after being restrained and held for three days.
Despite seeking voluntary help and denying suicidal thoughts, Jordan was involuntarily committed under Florida’s Baker Act. He was confused and felt betrayed, stating, “this place is not what I expected.”
After his release, Jordan’s mental health worsened. He quit his job, stopped paying his mortgage, and moved to Texas. Six months later, he tragically died by suicide.
Jordan’s friend, James Hobby, investigated his treatment and found that the VA mishandled his case. The VA’s Inspector General confirmed Jordan’s rights were violated and identified broader issues with the hospital’s Baker Act procedures.