UPDATE: In-Custody Death Investigation Continues

This is an update to the Fairfax County Police Department’s Criminal Investigation Bureau in-custody death investigation involving Natasha McKenna. McKenna was in the custody of the Fairfax County Sheriff’s Office at the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center (ADC) before being transported to the hospital by ambulance on February 3, and later died on February 8.

Fairfax County Police Department detectives have concluded all interviews which are being transcribed and reviewed. Detectives are concluding their preliminary investigative steps and are awaiting some key pieces of information to continue their process.

As widely publicized, a TASER was utilized in this incident. The TASER, which is evidence in this case, must be inspected and analyzed to ensure it was working within designed specifications. In addition, the medical equipment that was utilized to monitor McKenna’s vital signs prior to rescue being called to the ADC is currently being tested and analyzed. An independent laboratory is being sought for the TASER analysis and upon completion of the equipment testing, their reports will be part of the investigation summary turned over to the Office of the Medical Examiner, who will determine manner and cause of death. Detectives have not received either report at this time.

As is customary in all complex criminal investigations, forensic analysis of all potential evidence, though time intensive, is crucial to ensuring all proper and fair conclusions are reached based on accurate and detailed facts.

This investigation will be detailed and thorough, as every family who suffers a loss deserves. Once the investigation is complete, the entire case, including all evidence collected, the medical examiner’s report, any audio or video recordings, witness statements, and any other facts relevant to the case will be turned over to the Fairfax County Office of the Commonwealth’s Attorney for final determination of criminal liability.

The Fairfax County Police Department is the investigative agency for criminal purposes only.

The Fairfax County Police Department will provide further updates within the next 30 days or as soon as additional information becomes available.

Our previous release regarding this case can be viewed here: https://fcpdnews.wordpress.com/2015/04/02/current-status-of-in-custody-death-investigation/