An inmate’s death at the Cayuga County Jail is under investigation.
The Cayuga County Sheriff’s Office released information this morning about the incident that happened just before 4 a.m. on February 5, when 43-year-old Andre Denman was discovered unresponsive during a routine cell check inside the facility.
Deputies immediately began providing medical care and requested an ambulance to the Public Safety Building. Denman was transported to Auburn Community Hospital, where he was pronounced dead despite resuscitation efforts.
Under state law, the New York State Attorney General’s Office was notified of the in-custody death and has launched an independent investigation into the cause.
Sheriff Brian Schenck also addressed a social media post alleging Denman was beaten while in custody, calling the claim false. The sheriff’s office said Denman was alone in his cell when he was found unresponsive. Denham had been in the jail’s custody since January 31st after turning himself in on a warrant for a violation of the sex offender registry.
The Onondaga County Medical Examiner’s Office is conducting a forensic examination and autopsy. Authorities said they are awaiting those results, including toxicology findings.
Out of respect for Denman and his family, officials said no additional details are being released at this time.
