I-TEAM: Use of force investigation opened after Angola inmate death

ANGOLA, La. (WAFB) – West Feliciana Parish Sheriff Brian Spillman confirmed to the WAFB I-TEAM that his office is investigating a death at Angola over the weekend and whether use of force played a role.

On Saturday, January 24, deputies from the West Feliciana Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to Angola after 37-year-old Harold Brooks died. During the course of their investigation, detectives determined Brooks armed himself with a weapon and fought corrections officers. They were able to get him subdued, and while at the prison infirmary, Brooks died. Brooks is from the Lafayette area.

Reports were made after Brooks’ death that use of force was involved. Sheriff Brian Spillman said his office is looking into those allegations and is in the process of interviewing witnesses and reviewing prison cameras.

An autopsy will be performed to determine the inmate’s exact cause of death.

The Department of Corrections released the following statement to WAFB about the death at Angola:

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

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