BOTETOURT COUNTY, Va. – A man was found dead in his jail cell on Tuesday, the Botetourt County Sheriff’s Office said.
Deputies report that 39-year-old William Cash died by an apparent suicide on Tuesday.
According to the sheriff’s office, authorities conducted a routine security check around 6:55 p.m. and found no unusual behavior from Cash. But around 20 minutes later, deputies received notice that he was in distress. Upon arrival, they found the man unresponsive. They initiated life-saving measures until EMS arrived. He was taken to Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, where he was pronounced deceased at 8:44 p.m.
He was being held for failing to comply with the terms of his probation. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Roanoke will conduct an autopsy to determine the cause of death.
“Botetourt is a small community and many of those we serve are friends and sometimes even family. The loss of life weighs heavily on all of us. Our thoughts are with the families and friends during this incredibly difficult time”.
Sheriff Matt Ward
The Sheriff’s Office did not say whether this was related to an incident where a former golf pro was also found dead in his cell on the same day.
This is a developing situation. We will update you with more information as it becomes available.
“As part of our standard procedures, deputies conduct routine checks of all inmates twice per hour to ensure their safety and well-being. All actions taken by correctional staff were consistent with the regulations established by the governing correctional and regulatory authority.
An investigation into the incident is being conducted. No foul play is suspected, and Cash was housed alone in a secure cell at the time of the incident. As is our standard practice, the Virginia State Police and the Commonwealth’s Attorney have been asked to conduct an independent review of the investigation."
Botetourt County Sheriff's Office