The Pittsylvania County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the death of an inmate. At about 11:40 am on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, deputies alerted staff that Dustin Spake was slumped over in his cell.
The attending deputy immediately called for assistance. Staff, along with other deputies immediately responded, began CPR and called for emergency medical assistance.
Jail medical staff, and Pittsylvania County’s Emergency Medical Services along with Chatham EMS responded and rendered aid. A medic declared Mr. Spake deceased at the scene at approximately 12:35 pm.
Spake, 28, was arrested by the Pittsylvania County Sheriff’s Office and booked into the Pittsylvania County Jail on Monday, April 22, 2024, on a misdemeanor charge of assaulting a family member. A magistrate granted him a $10,000 secured bond.
When Mr. Spake did not post the bond, he was booked into the facility and provided an initial medical and mental health screening. Medical staff found no signs of medical distress at that time or the days to follow.
The incident is being investigated by the Virginia State Police with an internal investigation being conducted by the Pittsylvania County Sheriff’s Office. It has also been reported to the Virginia Department of Corrections, which reviews all in-custody deaths and has the authority to investigate. No foul play is suspected.
The Chief Medical Examiner of the Western District of Virginia will determine the cause and manner of death.