The DeSoto County Sheriff's Department has released a statement about an inmate they said died in an adult detention center on Friday, March 15.
Sheriff Thomas Tuggle describes the incident involving inmate Tiffany Allen as a "distressing incident." The full statement from the sheriff is as follows:
“As the Sheriff, it is with a heavy heart that I address the distressing incident involving a female discovered unresponsive within our correctional facility.
During a routine traffic stop, our vigilant deputies unearthed drug paraphernalia, prompting the individual's apprehension on drug-related charges. Upon her arrival at the detention center, our thorough inspection revealed concealed contraband, underscoring the severity of the situation.
Tragically, while waiting to be processed, she was subsequently found incapacitated in her cell, prompting our specialized investigative unit to administer immediate CPR in a bid to revive her. Our thoughts and prayers are extended to the individual and her family during this tumultuous period.
The investigating authorities (MBI) will disseminate further details pertaining to this incident in accordance with the ongoing inquiry. We maintain a steadfast commitment to transparency, providing the public comprehensive updates as the investigation progresses."
This is a developing story. ABC24 will update this article as more information becomes available.