FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS

Statement Regarding Inmate Death

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — On Monday, February 14, a Florida Department of Corrections (FDC) inmate died during a transfer from Dade Correctional Institution. The Department immediately took action to support a full investigation and ensure inmate safety. While initial details surrounding the death were not clear, after coordination with FDLE, FDC immediately placed 10 officers on administrative leave and one officer has resigned.

Below is a summary of the actions the Department has taken at the facility:

• FDC immediately notified the Office of Inspector General and the Florida Department Law Enforcement.
• Secretary Ricky Dixon and agency leadership immediately traveled to Dade Correctional Institution following the incident to assess the facility and to direct immediate action.
• While the investigation is currently ongoing, Secretary Dixon and agency leadership have taken administrative action.
• Shortly before the incident, the Dade Correctional Institution warden was replaced, and the new warden is conducting a holistic review of facility operations.

Due to the open and active investigation, the victim and staff member names cannot be released. FDC is committed to transparency and will provide more information as soon as it can be released.

Statement from Secretary Ricky Dixon:

“As Secretary, I will be unwavering in my support for staff who perform their jobs with respect and integrity, but I will also be unrelenting in disciplining staff who act outside of the ethical standards of our profession; they will be held accountable for their actions, up to, and including criminal prosecution.”

“Although this is an open criminal case, I have been in close contact with FDLE and have placed those who had close contact with the inmate on administrative leave. We will continue to work in close cooperation with FDLE.”