UPDATED RELEASE:

On March 8, 2024, at approximately 2:44 a.m., Norfolk Sheriff’s Office (NSO) staff were alerted to an inmate experiencing a medical emergency. The patient was identified as Darryl Arnold. Deputies and medical staff responded and conducted an initial assessment, began treating his symptoms, and moved him to the Norfolk City Jail (NCJ) medical ward to continue treatment. Mr. Arnold was awake and alert, speaking to staff and medical personnel. During treatment, medical staff determined Mr. Arnold needed to be transported to the hospital. He was transported from the NCJ at 4:44 a.m. At approximately 10:00 a.m., Mr. Arnold passed away at the hospital. The Norfolk Police Department (NPD) was notified to investigate as a Medical Examiner’s case, which is required by state law for all in-custody death. The Sheriff offers his condolences to the family of Mr. Arnold and has offered, through a family friend to speak to the family personally. All information in reference to the investigation must be referred to NPD and the cause of death will be determined by the Medical Examiner’s Office. Additionally, as result of this event, the Health Department has issued an alert and taken steps to address potential medical concerns.

ORIGINAL RELEASE:

The Norfolk Sheriff’s Office is investigating the death of an inmate that occurred in the early morning hours of March 8, 2024. The investigation into the circumstances of the incident remain ongoing, but the preliminary investigation reveals the inmate suffered a medical emergency while inside the Norfolk City Jail. Deputies were alerted by inmates in the cell block and the Norfolk City Jail medical team responded. The inmate was transported to a local hospital for treatment and was pronounced deceased several hours later. The identity of the inmate is being withheld until next of kin notification is complete.

The safety and security of those in our custody is always our top concern. Per state code all in-custody deaths must be investigated, and the Norfolk Police Department will be handling this death investigation. The official cause of death will be determined by the State Medical Examiner’s Office.

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The Norfolk Sheriff's Office is a values driven organization
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