Inmate Death At Columbia Prison Under Investigation

Sheriff’s officials say the death of an inmate at the Columbia Correctional Institution is under investigation.

The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office says the death of Larry Bracey Jr., 68, appears to be from natural causes, but toxicology test results are still pending.

Paramedics were called to a restrictive housing unit at the maximum-security men’s prison in Portage on Dec. 3, where Bracey was pronounced dead in his cell.

Meanwhile, the state prison remained on a lockdown that began Nov. 8 following three assaults by inmates on staff members. Inmates are mainly confined to their cells and get bagged meals.

Phone privileges, visitations and canteen distributions have also been suspended.