Coram
An investigation following two inmate overdoses at the Bartholomew County Jail this week has led to felony charges, the Bartholomew County Sheriff’s Office said Thursday.
Sheriff’s public information officer Sgt. Dane Duke said corrections officers found two inmates in medical distress at about 5:30 p.m. Monday and immediately began emergency response procedures.
”It was determined that the inmates were suffering from an overdose, with one requiring the administration of Narcan,” according to Duke. The inmates were transported to Columbus Regional Hospital where they were treated and returned to the jail.
Nursing staff evaluated other inmates on the cell block, and two who showed symptoms of impairment were taken to CRH as a precaution, according to Duke.
An immediate investigation was initiated, and a suspect was identified within hours of the incident, according to Duke.
Dai Von Terees Coram 27, 1922 Indiana Ave., Columbus, has been charged with Level 4 felony dealing in a narcotic drug, Level 5 felony trafficking with an inmate and Level 6 felony obstruction of justice. Coram is being held in the Bartholomew County Jail on $80,000 bond.
According to jail records, Coram previously had been arrested by Columbus Police on Feb. 21 on charges of possession of a hypodermic needle or syringe, possession of paraphernalia and invasion of privacy.
“The safety and wellbeing of the inmates is our number one priority. I commend my corrections staff for utilizing their training and adhering to policy and procedure in responding to this incident. Their quick action demonstrates professionalism and dedication to caring for those under their supervision,” said Sheriff Chris Lane.
Corrections staff and JNET (Joint Narcotics Enforcement Team) detectives worked through Monday night and Tuesday conducting interviews, which resulted in a confession from Coram, officials said.
“I understand that the public wants to know immediately when these instances occur. However, because this was an ongoing investigation, details could not be immediately released. It is my responsibility to maintain the integrity of the investigation and ensure that the individual(s) responsible for trafficking these illegal substances are held accountable,” Lane said.
Jail Commander Capt. Justin Arnholt recognized the excellent work of jail staff. “Throughout the nation it is a constant struggle for correctional facilities to keep narcotics out of their cell blocks,” he said. “I am extremely proud of my staff and their work during this incident, which could have had a much worse outcome if they had not taken the actions they did.”
