In-Custody Death in North Hollywood Division NRF055-18ma

**The following information is based on a preliminary and 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**

North Hollywood: Los Angeles Police Department’s Force Investigation Division is investigating an in-custody death in which a male was transported by an ambulance to a local hospital and died.

On October 8, 2018, around 1:20 p.m., North Hollywood patrol officers responded to a radio call of a man assaulting a woman in the 7200 block of Beck Avenue. There was a man matching the description of the subject of the radio call lying in the street. Believing the man, later identified as Hamic Steed, in the street was the suspect of the radio call, the officers handcuffed Steed. Steed appeared to be in medical distress and was transported to a local hospital. Steed was pronounced dead at 2:43 p.m. During the investigation, it was discovered Steed had attempted to sexually assault a roommate prior to the police arrival.

LAPD’s specialized Force Investigation Division (FID) responded to the scene and began interviewing witnesses and collecting forensic evidence. The FID investigation will ultimately be reviewed by the Chief of Police, the Office of the Inspector General and Board of Police Commissioners for compliance with the Department’s policy. Additionally, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Justice System Integrity Division will conduct a comprehensive review of the facts of the incident.

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.