Around 3 a.m. on Saturday, February 2nd, the Indiana State Police was called to Starke Hospital in Knox to conduct an investigation into the death of an inmate.
According to the initial investigation by ISP Detective Brian Kubiak, during processing into the Starke County Jail, 41-year-old Steven Richie, of North Judson, reportedly removed a clear plastic baggie from his pants pocket, containing an unknown white chalky substance, and allegedly put it into his mouth. Jail staff purportedly tried to keep Richie from swallowing it but they were unable to do so.
ISP reports that Richie was then taken to the hospital in Knox, where he was later cleared by medical staff to return to the jail. The report goes onto say that after being booked and kept under close observation, jail staff became alarmed at Richie’s erratic behavior.
Jail staff and a North Judson police officer were allegedly attempting to get Richie, who was reportedly conscious and awake, from his cell to go back to the hospital for another assessment. Police noted that while trying to get him out of the cell, he became lethargic, his breathing became shallow and then his breathing stopped.
The police report indicates that they immediately provided him with medical treatment and called an ambulance. Lifesaving attempts were also performed by medics in the ambulance but were unsuccessful. Richie was pronounced deceased at the hospital, according to police.
An autopsy was performed which showed no trauma. Toxicology results are pending at this time and could take several weeks. Richie’s family was notified and the investigation is ongoing.
ISP reports that Richie was arrested for driving while suspended and a warrant out of Marshall County for Resisting Law Enforcement. They added that all criminal defendants are to be presumed innocent until, and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
