DeKalb CountySheriff’s Office reports death of 26-year-old jail inmate

DEKALB COUNTY, GA– The DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office is reporting the in-custody death of a 26-year-old inmate at the DeKalb County Jail.

According to authorities, Tehutihotep Hartley of Decatur was found unresponsive in

the facility on Monday morning.  Aug.17.  On-site medical personnel and emergency

medical services  administered aid, but  Hartley was pronounced deceased in the

jail’s medical clinic. 

The Sheriff’s Office stated that the incident may have been an unanticipated medical

emergency with no evidence of foul play. The cause of death remains undetermined while a full investigation is conducted, officials said.

“We extend condolences to the Hartley family,” says Sheriff Melody M. Maddox. “This office takes the care of persons in our custody very seriously, and we are committed to transparency and accountability in all aspects of our jail operations.”

The Sheriff’s Office did not provide any additional information. 

Hartley’s death is the fourth reported inmate death in 2026  at the DeKalb County Jail. Last year, the Sheriff’s Office reported eight inmate deaths.