News

Actions

2 officers suspended after man’s accidental death at jail

Posted at 9:19 PM, Aug 24, 2016
and last updated 2016-08-24 21:19:59-04

KALAMAZOO, Mich. (AP) – Two Kalamazoo officers have been suspended for one day following the accidental death of a 57-year-old man in police custody.

Public Safety Chief Jeff Hadley says in a release Wednesday that the officers should have recognized James Dunigan’s medical condition and sought treatment.

Medical examiners have determined that Dunigan’s May 6 death was caused by medical issues which included heart and kidney disease and diabetes. Tests also found drug use.

Dunigan refused to leave a hospital following his discharge. He was arrested for trespassing and probation violation. He was handcuffed and placed in a patrol car.

The department has said he stopped breathing while at the county jail and CPR “was immediately administered without success.”

The officers were suspended for violating the police department’s policy regarding medical attention.