VB sheriff calls for investigation after man in custody has medical emergency

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — A man who was in the custody of the Virginia Beach Sheriff's Office had a medical emergency after being restrained on the evening of June 4, according to a news release from Sheriff Rocky Holcomb.

As officers arrested the man, he became “uncooperative and combative,” according to the release, prompting deputies to subdue him “for his safety and the safety of the arresting officers and jail deputies.” Shortly after, the man suffered a medical emergency and was transported to Sentara Princess Anne Hospital.

An investigation into the incident by the Office of Professional Standards will now begin, and an independent investigation has also been requested by Sheriff Holcomb. The latter will be conducted by the Virginia State Police.

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Charges against the arrested man of trespassing, resisting arrest and disorderly conduct — all misdemeanor offenses — were dismissed, according to online Virginia Beach District General Court records. News 3 has chosen not to name the man because he no longer faces these charges.

“We are investigating the incident with [the man] and we are committed to a full and thorough investigation, which is why I have asked the Virginia State Police to conduct an independent review,” Holcomb said in a statement. “I cannot comment on the specific facts of the case at this time due to the need to preserve the integrity of the investigation. As always, I am committed to being completely transparent with the community and will be open to the findings once the investigation is complete. »

The man was released from VBSO on June 5.

On Sunday, News 3's Jay Greene confirmed with hospital staff that the man was still in their intensive care unit.