A second Alabama jailer, Karen Kelly, has agreed to plead guilty to federal charges for her involvement in the death of mentally ill man Tony Mitchell, who died of hypothermia after being held naked in a cold concrete cell at Walker County Jail. Kelly’s plea agreement states that she was aware of the dangerous conditions in the cell but did not alert authorities out of fear of retaliation. Mitchell, 33, died in January 2023 from hypothermia and sepsis due to medical neglect. The jail cell, known as the “drunk tank,” was extremely cold, and Mitchell was left naked without a mat or blanket for much of the time he was held there.
Kelly’s defense lawyer stated that she accepted responsibility for her role in Mitchell’s death and hopes that new policies will be put in place to protect inmates in the future. Kelly leaked a video showing Mitchell being carried out of the jail unconscious after his death, leading to her being fired from her position. Mitchell had a history of drug addiction and had been arrested following a welfare check by authorities. He had fired a shot at deputies before running into the woods.
Kelly is the second jailer to plead guilty in connection to Mitchell’s death, with Joshua Conner Jones also agreeing to plead guilty to conspiracy to deprive an inmate of their rights. Jones’ plea agreement mentioned five co-conspirators involved in the mistreatment that led to Mitchell’s death, suggesting that the investigation is ongoing and more people could be charged. Mitchell’s death has highlighted the need for accountability and improved conditions for inmates in Alabama jails.
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