At approximately 9:22 pm, on October 7, 2024, a 54-year-old male (in custody) who was being treated for a terminal illness was found unresponsive in his (medical housing unit) cell.

El Paso County Sheriff’s Office deputies and medical staff responded and began rendering lifesaving efforts and immediate medical care.

At approximately 9:35 pm, the Colorado Springs Fire Department (CSFD) arrived and assumed medical care of the individual, continuing life-saving efforts. American Medical Response (AMR) arrived shortly thereafter, and life-saving efforts ceased at 9:41 pm.

Our Office extends our condolences to the individual’s family and friends during this difficult time.

The deceased individual had recently been treated (for several days) at a local hospital, during which time the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office provided round-the-clock security.

Attempts were made by Sheriff Roybal to expedite court proceedings to better accommodate end-of-life care for the individual. However, he passed away before those efforts could come to fruition.

The deceased individual was remanded to the custody of the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office earlier this year while awaiting sentencing for Failure to Comply with Probation.  He was being held without bond by issue of the court.

Although the Sheriff’s Office believes his death is a result of natural causes, Sheriff Roybal has ordered an in-depth investigation of the incident.

The El Paso County Sheriff's Office Investigations Division will conduct this investigation, adhering to the standards we provide to all El Paso County citizens.

In addition, Sheriff Roybal has requested an autopsy by the El Paso County Coroner’s Office.