News

Man, 63, Dies at Dauphin County Prison on Dec. 24; Investigation Ongoing

Dec 28, 2022
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An incarcerated individual at Dauphin County Prison died early Saturday morning.

Richard A. Carter, 63, had a medical emergency shortly after midnight, prompting prison and medical staff to respond and administer life-sustaining treatment, including CPR and an AED.

Carter was pronounced dead Saturday at 12:54 a.m.

The Dauphin County Coroner and District Attorney’s Criminal Investigation Unit are reviewing the circumstances around the death.

Officials notified Carter’s family Saturday morning.

Considering the ongoing investigation, we are providing this preliminary information so to protect the integrity of the investigation and the decedent’s rights under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA):

Carter was booked into the prison on Dec. 20 on a contempt charge, with bail set at $10,000.

He had a preexisting medical condition which required medication. He did not have a cellmate.

A review of video evidence indicated a nurse went into Carter’s cell on Friday night, at 9:31 p.m., and made contact with him. He took his medication.

Staff also made 15-minute rounds on Carter’s cellblock.

A temperature check in Carter’s cell immediately after the medical emergency showed the temperature at 73.5 degrees.

Additional information will be released when it is appropriate, considering the investigation and the decedent’s HIPAA rights.

An interview process is ongoing for an Internal Affairs Investigator at the prison. This position would conduct reviews separate from, but in addition to, the criminal investigations conducted following uses of force and instances of injury and death at the prison. Findings will be used in internal operations improvements and actions regarding discipline.