Inmate found dead in holding cell at Chambers County Detention Facility, sheriff says

Key Takeaways:

• Inmate Found Unresponsive: 36-year-old Leanna Washington was discovered unresponsive in her holding cell.
• Death Pronounced Despite Lifesaving Efforts: Authorities attempted to revive her without success.
• Booked on Drug-Related Charges: Washington was in custody following an arrest on drug-related charges.
• Independent Investigation Initiated: Sheriff Jeff Nelson requested an investigation by the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s State Bureau of Investigation.
• No Others Involved: Officials stated that no other inmates or detention deputies were involved in the incident.

An inmate at the Chambers County Detention Facility was pronounced dead after being found unresponsive in her assigned holding cell on Saturday morning. The 36-year-old woman, identified as Leanna Washington of LaGrange, Georgia, was discovered at approximately 11:45 a.m., according to the Chambers County Sheriff’s Office.

Inmate’s Background

Washington had been booked into the detention facility on December 28 following her arrest by the Valley Police Department on drug-related charges. Specific details regarding the charges were not disclosed by authorities.

Incident Details

Upon finding Washington unresponsive, detention deputies and medical personnel immediately initiated lifesaving measures. The Lafayette Fire & EMS Department responded promptly and continued efforts to revive her. Despite these concerted efforts, Washington was pronounced dead at the facility.

Investigation Announcement

In the wake of the incident, Sheriff Jeff Nelson requested that the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) conduct an independent investigation. “All evidence was turned over to SBI upon arrival,” the Sheriff’s Office stated, indicating full cooperation with the investigative process.

No Others Involved

Officials have confirmed that no other inmates or detention deputies were involved in the incident. This clarification suggests that the circumstances surrounding Washington’s death were isolated, though no additional details have been provided at this time.

Awaiting Investigation Results

The Chambers County Sheriff’s Office has indicated that no further information will be released until the SBI completes its investigation. The timeline for the investigation’s conclusion has not been specified, leaving unanswered questions about the events leading up to Washington’s death.

Conclusion

Washington’s unexpected death has prompted scrutiny of the detention facility’s procedures and conditions. The independent investigation aims to shed light on the circumstances and ensure accountability. As the community awaits the findings, the incident underscores the critical importance of transparency within the justice system.