DA rules no charges filed against officers in squad car death, Pleasant Prairie police respond
PLEASANT PRAIRIE, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Pleasant Prairie police are responding after the Kenosha County DA's Office determined no charges will be filed against officers involved in the arrest of a man who fatally shot himself in the back of a squad car in July.
Jacob Albright was arrested by Pleasant Prairie police officers on July 20.
While placing him in handcuffs, the DA's office says officers "secured Albright against the outside of the squad and searched him," however both officers determined a more thorough search should occur in a more secured location at the jail.
The DA's office goes on to say squad video shows Albright handcuffed in the back of the squad, moving around "almost continually" and reaching into his rear waistband area while complaining about the tightness of the handcuffs, being uncomfortable and feeling sick. At one point, the video reportedly shows Albright unfasten his own seatbelt, lay across the backseat, and eventually roll onto his side, moving his hands behind his back. The DA's office says a black handgun is then seen on the seat, which Albright pulls toward himself with his right hand. As the squad is approaching the entrance to the jail, a loud pop is heard, and "it is clear that Albright has shot himself."
In a statement, the Kenosha County DA says:
"We concur with the Racine County Sheriff's Office who, having pursued an investigation which included obtaining statements from all involved parties as well as a review of the video and physical evidence, have specifically concluded that no criminal charges are appropriate and thus no charges have been referred regarding the involved officers."
Pleasant Prairie police say Albright was prohibited from possessing a gun. Officers arrested him at a Super 8 hotel after an incident earlier in the day when Albright was seen with a firearm. The police department says body camera and squad video show officers conducting an in-custody search of Albright, who was said to be resisting officers. During that time, the police department says officers did not detect a weapon.
Transporting officers "immediately summoned emergency personnel" after Albright fired his weapon, however he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Two officers involved in the search, and on additional officer involved in Albright's transport, were placed on paid administrative leave and eventually brought back to restricted duty. The police department says the officers have now been restored to full duty.
They say an internal review has been ordered to determine if Pleasant Prairie Police Department policies and procedures were adhered to, and if any discipline or training is needed.