LAPD Investigating Death of Felony Arrestee on March 27, 2016 NRF019-16ma

**The following information is based on a preliminary, ongoing investigation which continues to evolve as investigators interview witnesses, review physical and electronic records, and analyze forensic evidence. The Department’s understanding of the facts and circumstances may change as additional evidence is collected and analyzed**

Los Angeles: LAPD’s specialized Force Investigation Division (FID) is investigating the death of Ms. Wakiesha Wilson who died at Los Angeles County-University of Southern California Medical Center (LAC-USCMC) on March 27, 2016 after her arrest on felony battery charges.

Ms. Wilson was arrested by Central Area Patrol Officers on March 26, 2016 after they responded to a medical facility on the 1300 block of Hope Street to investigate a 9-1-1 call regarding a person assaulting a patient. When the officers arrived they conducted an investigation and determined that Ms. Wilson had assaulted the victim. Ms. Wilson was taken into custody without the use of any physical force. The officers transported Ms. Wilson to the Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) where she was booked on a felony charge of battery under California Penal Code Section 243.

On March 27, 2016 at approximately 8:25 a.m., MDC personnel conducted a safety check of Ms. Wilson’s cell and discovered her lying on the floor unconscious and not breathing. MDC personnel immediately requested paramedics and began lifesaving measures to revive her. Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics arrived and transported her to LAC-USCMC and continued CPR and other lifesaving measures. Ms. Wilson, however, failed to respond to the emergency medical treatment and died later that morning at the hospital.

The Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office was contacted and is currently conducting its investigation to determine the cause of death.

Force Investigation Division is conducting its comprehensive investigation which will be presented to the Chief of Police and the Board of Police Commissioners to determine whether the officers complied with LAPD’s policies and procedures.

Anyone with additional information regarding this incident is urged to call the LAPD at any of the following numbers: •During business hours at (213) 486-5230; •During non-business hours or on weekends at (877)-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247); •Anonymously 24-hours a day to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or by texting “LAPD” and your tip to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S); or •Online at www.lapdonline.org and click on “Anonymous Web Tips.