GBI Investigating Death of Inmate at Banks County Detention Center

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation has been asked to conduct an independent investigation following the death of an inmate at the Banks County Detention Center.

According to a news release issued by the Banks County Sheriff’s Office, the inmate died Tuesday, August 18 while in custody at the detention center.

The Sheriff’s Office requested that the GBI investigate the death. Authorities have not released information regarding the circumstances surrounding the inmate’s death or a possible cause.

The identity of the deceased also has not been publicly released.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, officials intentionally delayed releasing information about the incident while efforts were underway to identify and notify the inmate’s next of kin.

The agency said it believed family members should receive the information “directly and respectfully” before details were made public.

No additional information was available at the time of the release.

The Banks County Sheriff’s Office said additional details will be released as they become available.

WCHM will update this story as more information is released.