An inmate death at the Fulton County Jail is being investigated by the Indiana State Police.
At the request of Fulton County Sheriff Chris Sailors, ISP Detective Brent Ingram launched an investigation into the death of 29-year-old jail inmate Nicholas Clevenger, of Rochester.
Detective Ingram’s preliminary investigation revealed that Clevenger was arrested on Sunday, March 3rd by officers from the Rochester Police Department. His charges reportedly included possession of marijuana, possession of methamphetamine, possession of a syringe, and possession of a narcotic drug.
Clevenger was booked into the Fulton County Jail, at approximately 5:25 p.m., and placed in a cell that was monitored with cameras because he allegedly indicated he might harm himself.
Monday morning, at approximately 5:45 a.m., a correctional officer found Clevenger unconscious and not breathing. According to authorities, correctional staff started life saving measures and requested an ambulance. However, despite their efforts, Clevenger was pronounced deceased in the cell.
ISP officials report that there were no outwardly signs of trauma to Clevenger’s body and an autopsy has been scheduled for Tuesday morning in Fort Wayne.
This investigation is ongoing and no further information will be released at this time.
All criminal defendants are to be presumed innocent until, and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
