Sheriff Marshak on recent jail inmate suicide

(Hillsboro) Last week, an inmate in the Jefferson County Jail passed away after an apparent suicide by hanging. 29-year old Joseph Mendes of Imperial was found in his cell around midnight on January 20th. Sheriff Dave Marshak says it was a tragic and unfortunate situation.

There were no signs of foul play as part of the investigation. Also, a check of prior phone calls made by Mendes, did not reveal any indications of suicidal thoughts. Mendes was denied a bond reduction earlier that day.