McDERMOTT, Ohio — After an inmate in the Scioto County Jail was found dead, another has been charged in the death.
According to the Sheriff, an inmate was in a holding cell when they became unresponsive and not breathing. They were rushed to the local hospital where they were pronounced dead.
The Sheriff said detectives were able to determine that another inmate had been arrested
by the Portsmouth Police Department and smuggled into the jail what was believed to be fentanyl. The man was bonded out of jail before others could consume the drugs, and after his release, three inmates, plus the one who died partook in the illegal use.
Sheriff David Thoroughman stated the victim has been identified as Cory William Cantrell, 23, of Franklin Furnace.
Arrested for involuntary manslaughter was Perry L. Steele, 43, McDermott. In addition to these charges, Steele has been charged with several drug charges, including smuggling into the secure complex.
Steele is being held in the Scioto County Jail without bond and will appear in Portsmouth Municipal Court on Tuesday.
The Sheriff stated that this is still an ongoing investigation that could result in more charges
being presented to the Scioto County Grand Jury on a later date.
