Karen Kelly Admits to Federal Charges Amid Ongoing Investigation
A second jailer in Alabama has agreed to plead guilty to federal charges related to the tragic death of Tony Mitchell, a mentally ill inmate who died of hypothermia after being held naked in a concrete cell at Walker County Jail. Karen Kelly, who was involved in the incident, has admitted to a charge of deprivation of rights under color of law, acknowledging her “minimal role” in the circumstances that led to Mitchell’s death.
Concerns Ignored Due to Fear of Retaliation
According to the plea agreement filed in federal court, Kelly was aware that the conditions in Mitchell’s cell posed a serious risk to his health. However, she only reported her concerns to her supervisor and did not escalate the issue further, citing a fear of retaliation within the jail’s culture. Kelly had twice requested that Mitchell be given a mat or blanket, but her requests were denied by a member of the command staff, who insisted that Mitchell remain under those harsh conditions.
Inmate’s Death and Kelly’s Actions
Tony Mitchell, 33, was arrested on January 12, 2023, following a welfare check requested by a family member due to his erratic behavior. He was later taken to Walker County Jail, where he was held in a notoriously cold concrete cell, often referred to as the jail’s “drunk tank.” Mitchell was left naked in the cell, without a mat or blanket, and his condition deteriorated rapidly. He was eventually brought to the hospital in severe medical distress and died on January 26, 2023. The cause of death was listed as hypothermia and sepsis due to medical neglect.
After Mitchell’s death, Kelly leaked video footage showing him being carried unconscious out of the jail. In a civil lawsuit she filed, Kelly stated that she released the video to ensure the truth about Mitchell’s death was made public. Following the leak, Kelly was terminated from her position at the jail.
Legal Developments and Ongoing Investigation
Kelly is the second jailer to plead guilty in connection with Mitchell’s death. Joshua Conner Jones, another jailer, has also agreed to plead guilty to one count of conspiracy to deprive an inmate of their rights. Court documents indicate that five co-conspirators were involved in the mistreatment that led to Mitchell’s death, suggesting that the investigation is ongoing and that additional charges may be forthcoming.
