‘In Custody’ Death of Nacogdoches Inmate Under Investigation

According to a release from the Nacogdoches County Sheriff's Office, an investigation is underway by Texas Rangers concerning the death of a county inmate.

Jose Loredo, 62, was booked into the Nacogdoches County Jail on August 22, 2020. He was convicted on a DWI, felony offense, and sentenced to TDCJ (the Texas Prison System).  Loredo was housed in the Nacogdoches County Jail, while awaiting admission and transfer to TDCJ.  He was housed in C Block, Cell 2, which is a single man housing cell.

On October 3, 2021, jail staff was notified of a “man down” in C Block. They responded to the scene and found Inmate Loredo inside his cell on the floor.  He stated that he had fallen inside his cell, and struck the toilet. Loredo was alone inside the cell when he fell.  EMS was immediately called to the scene, and he was transported to a local hospital.  Details of his medical condition during his hospital stay cannot be reported at this time due to HIPAA restrictions.

Mr. Loredo remained in the hospital until he passed away on November 18, 2021 at 5:45 a.m. Although Mr. Loredo was in the hospital continuously for 46 days, his death is technically considered an in-custody death since he was never released from TDCJ.

Justice of the Peace, Precinct 1, Kerry Don Williamson was notified of the death, and Judge Williamson ordered an autopsy, which is standard procedure for all in-custody deaths.  Texas Ranger Jim Hicks, with the Texas Department of Public Safety, was notified of the in-custody death and is conducting an investigation, as required by state law for any in-custody death.