Journal #36 Tucson man jailed for not taking medication for tuberculosis

TUCSON- A Tucson man has been jailed for failing to take medication for his tuberculosis, authorities said.James Roman Pearson, 49, remained at the Pima County jail Wednesday on a tuberculosis violation more than two weeks after the county Health Department petitioned to have him taken in to custody because he represented a serious health risk."He is now being held in isolation. The court will decide when he will be released," said Deputy Dawn Hanke, a Sheriff's Department spokeswoman. Pearson is in one of four isolation cells that are called negative pressure rooms, which have a separate air filtration system, authorities said.Whenever Pearson is outside of his cell, he must wear a respiratory mask.Since he has been in custody, authorities said Pearson has been taking his medication.