Exclusive details: SBI investigating inmate death at Rutherford County Detention Center
The incident occurred just hours after Moseley Architects presented their study findings for a new jail to Rutherford County Commissioners on Monday.
On Tuesday, May 7, 2024, a tragic incident unfolded at the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Detention Center when detention staff discovered an inmate unresponsive in their assigned cell, authorities said in a news release. Despite immediate intervention and life-saving measures by staff, the inmate could not be revived.
Sheriff James Aaron Ellenburg emphasized the importance of a transparent and impartial investigation in an interview with Cops & Congress. "The priority of our office is to ensure a thorough and independent examination of this incident," he said.
The incident comes just hours after Moseley Architects presented their findings of a space needs study for a new jail to Rutherford County Commissioners on Monday.
Upon discovering the situation, detention staff promptly contacted the 911 Communications Center, which dispatched Rutherford County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) and Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) from the Rutherfordton Fire and Rescue Department.
Following the incident, the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office requested the involvement of the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) to conduct an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the inmate’s untimely death. The SBI has since assumed responsibility for leading and managing the investigation. Details regarding the identity of the deceased inmate have not been released.
“The family (of the deceased inmate) has been contacted. We are committed to transparency and will cooperate fully with the SBI during their investigation,” Sheriff Ellenburg exclusively told Cops & Congress.
The Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office said that they will provide updates as soon as more information becomes available. The SBI's involvement underscores the seriousness with which law enforcement authorities are treating this incident.
This is a developing story and more information will be shared as it becomes available.
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