Inmate Killed in Tangipahoa Parish Jail

Source: Robert Rhoden, NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune  

An inmate died after a disturbance in the Tangipahoa Parish Jail in Amite, authorities said Tuesday (Jan. 31). The Sheriff's Office said the death was a homicide but released few other details.

The Sheriff's Office has not publicly named the inmate, but WWL television quoted relatives identifying him as Tommy Smith, 40. Relatives said Smith was jailed Monday on a charge of violating his  probation from a sexual battery case.

Shortly before midnight, jailers  responded to a disturbance between inmates, the Sheriff's Office said. One inmate needed immediate medical attention, and staffers performed CPR until emergency crews arrived, the agency said, adding: "Unfortunately attempts to revive the offender were unsuccessful," the release said.

The Sheriff's Office criminal investigation division is looking into the death.