On Wednesday night, October 25, Columbia County Sheriff Office Detectives began an investigation into the death of a CCSO inmate at the county jail.
The investigation was prompted when Detention Deputies who were conducting routine inmate checks found Harry Leary, 57 dead in his cell. Leary was in alone in the cell waiting to be in processed when he apparently used his clothing to self-asphyxiate.
Detention Deputies began CPR and notified EMS who responded and pronounced him dead just before 8PM.
Sheriff Mark Hunter responded and directed that FDLE take part in a joint investigation. “This is a sad incident which illustrates the stresses of incarceration and the very difficult work done by the jail staff.” Sheriff Hunter said, “Our hearts go out to the Leary family during this difficult time.”
Leary was being booked on a burglary charge and a violation of probation charge.
This investigation is active and ongoing.
