DEKALB COUNTY, GA–– The DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office reports the death of the 8th inmate to die in custody at the DeKalb County Jail this year.
Officials said the death appears to be a medical emergency and there is no evidence of foul play. An internal investigation is underway, and an autopsy will be performed by the DeKalb Medical Examiner’s Office.
According to authorities, 59-year-old Rodney Garrick of Lithonia, Georgia, was found unresponsive in the facility early this morning (Oct. 15). Officials said that on-site medical personnel immediately administered aid until emergency medical services arrived. Garrick was transported to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased.
“Our condolences go out to Mr. Garrick’s family,” DeKalb County Sheriff Melody M. Maddox said in a statement. “While the incident appears to have been a sudden and unanticipated medical emergency, a full investigation is underway, both internally and by the Medical Examiner’s Office. We remain committed to transparency and accountability in all aspects of our jail operations.”