Nine Duval County Corrections Officers Suspended Following Inmate Charles Faggart’s Death Inside Jail, Prompting Outcry and Ongoing Investigation into Conditions and Staff Conduct
Jacksonville, FL – April 14, 2025 — In a deeply troubling development that has sparked public concern and demands for accountability, the Duval County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that nine corrections officers have been suspended in connection with the death of inmate Charles Faggart. The incident, which occurred within the secure confines of the Duval County Jail, has raised serious questions about inmate safety, staff conduct, and the overall integrity of correctional procedures in the facility.
According to a statement released by the Sheriff’s Office, the internal investigation was launched following the unexpected death of 41-year-old Charles Faggart while in custody. Initial reports indicate that Faggart may have been involved in a confrontation with correctional staff prior to his death, though official details remain limited as the investigation continues.
Sheriff T.K. Waters acknowledged the seriousness of the matter during a brief press conference Monday morning, stating, “This is a grave incident that warrants a thorough, impartial investigation. We are committed to transparency and will ensure that every action taken is aligned with legal standards and the ethical treatment of those in our custody.”
Although specific details about the officers’ involvement and the timeline of events have not been publicly disclosed, the Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the nine suspended officers are being investigated for potential violations of departmental policies. The suspensions are administrative at this time and not criminal charges—though authorities have not ruled out the possibility of criminal charges pending the outcome of the inquiry.
Charles Faggart was reportedly found unresponsive in his cell, prompting a medical emergency call within the facility. Life-saving measures were attempted by jail staff and emergency responders, but Faggart was pronounced dead shortly afterward. The medical examiner’s office is currently conducting an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death, including whether excessive force or negligence played a role.
Civil rights advocates and local community leaders have expressed outrage and concern in the wake of the announcement. Organizations including the North Florida Justice Coalition and the Jacksonville Community Action Committee are calling for independent oversight and a comprehensive review of correctional operations at the jail.
“We’ve seen too many instances where oversight fails, and inmates suffer the consequences,” said Tanisha Harper, a local activist and community organizer. “This is not just about one inmate. It’s about a pattern of behavior that puts lives at risk and erodes public trust.”
Family members of Charles Faggart have also spoken out, demanding answers and accountability. In a written statement, the Faggart family said, “Charles was a son, a brother, and a father. He had his struggles, but he didn’t deserve to die in a place where he was supposed to be under supervision and protection. We want justice for Charles.”
The incident has reignited ongoing conversations about jail reform, officer training, and mental health services within the corrections system. Advocates are calling for body camera mandates, increased transparency in jail operations, and a stronger emphasis on de-escalation training for corrections staff.
Sheriff Waters has pledged full cooperation with external investigative agencies, including the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) and the State Attorney’s Office. He has also ordered an internal audit of all recent use-of-force incidents involving jail personnel.
As this case continues to unfold, it remains a focal point for broader discussions about the balance between security and humane treatment within the correctional system. Further updates from the Sheriff’s Office are expected in the coming days as the investigation progresses.
Anyone with additional information about the incident is encouraged to contact the Duval County Sheriff’s Office or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers.
The death of Charles Faggart and the resulting suspensions mark a pivotal moment for Duval County’s justice system, where the calls for transparency, reform, and accountability grow louder by the day.