News Summary
The family of Byron Jackson is demanding transparency following his death in police custody in Irmo, South Carolina. After a pursuit, Jackson died several days later in a hospital, prompting questions about police conduct and delays in the investigation. The family met with reporters to insist on the release of body camera footage and expressed concerns over the lack of information provided to them. This tragic incident highlights ongoing issues of police accountability and community trust in law enforcement.
Family Demands Transparency After Byron Jackson Dies in Irmo Police Custody Following Pursuit
Irmo, South Carolina — A family is seeking answers and transparency following the death of Byron Jackson, a 45-year-old man who died in police custody last month after an altercation with officers. Jackson’s family, along with their attorney, held a press conference in Columbia to express their concerns regarding the lack of communication and detail surrounding his death.
Irmo Police reported that Jackson’s encounter began on June 22, shortly after 2:00 a.m., when officers received a call regarding a fight in a vehicle. The police initiated a pursuit of a vehicle believed to be linked to the incident, which ultimately ended in the 7800 block of Broad River Road. According to police accounts, Jackson engaged in a struggle with officers before experiencing breathing problems.
Following the confrontation, Jackson was transported to a hospital where he remained for three days before dying on June 25. Authorities from the Irmo Police Department requested an investigation by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) immediately after Jackson was hospitalized. However, Jackson’s family claims they were not notified of his hospitalization until several hours later and were troubled to learn that he was listed as a “John Doe” at the hospital.
During the press conference, the family’s attorney emphasized the need for the public release of body camera footage recorded by officers during the incident. They also questioned why SLED was not engaged until more than 24 hours after the encounter. The family’s concerns were heightened by the absence of any preliminary findings, as the Richland County Coroner’s Office has yet to complete the final autopsy report, leaving the cause of death undetermined.
Jackson’s loved ones described him as a dedicated father of six, highlighting the profound impact of his loss on the family. His mother shared her deep sorrow, reflecting on the profound void his death left behind.
While the incident is under investigation, Irmo Police Chief Bobby Dale announced that the department would refrain from public comments, citing the ongoing investigation by SLED. However, the family’s attorney has strongly urged for transparency and accountability, insisting that the family deserves clear answers regarding Jackson’s final moments.
In the aftermath of the incident, two officers from the Irmo Police Department have been placed on administrative leave. The family has expressed skepticism regarding the police narrative, specifically contesting the claims of a high-speed chase prior to the altercation.
Jackson’s family remains determined to obtain the body camera footage, believing it holds vital information that could elucidate the circumstances of his death and whether excessive force was applied. They have indicated that a lack of transparency might lead them to pursue legal action against the involved parties.
This incident has drawn attention to the broader issues of police accountability and community trust in law enforcement practices, as residents of Irmo and beyond continue to reflect on the implications of Jackson’s tragic death.
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Additional Resources
- WIS TV: Great Deal Questions Family Man Who Died in Irmo Police Custody
- Wikipedia: Police Brutality
- WRDW: Family Speaks Out After North Augusta Man Dies in Irmo Police Custody
- Google Search: Byron Jackson Irmo Police Custody
- WACH: Family of Man Who Died in Irmo Police Custody to Hold Press Conference
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Police Accountability
- The State: Investigation into Irmo Police Custody Death
- Google News: Byron Jackson Police Custody
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