FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Cole County, MO, June 27, 2024 – In response to the recent death of Earl Manuel, Sr. in the Cole County Jail, the family, clergy and the NAACP, along with local community members, will hold a press conference to demand accountability and transparency from local authorities. The press conference will take place at 10 AM tomorrow in front of the Cole County Sheriff’s Office, located at 350 E. High Street. 

Earl Manuel, Sr., a 67-year-old inmate, was found unresponsive in his cell on Saturday, June 1, 2024, and was pronounced dead at 4:28 PM .  There are concerns raised by the family about the care he received. The Callaway County Sheriff's Department, which has been requested by Cole County Sheriff John Wheeler to conduct an official investigation, has reported no evidence of foul play. However, the cause of death remains unknown pending an official autopsy.  The family has asked for video and information about the care Mr. Manuel received.

Nimrod Chapel, Jr., President of the Missouri State Conference of the NAACP, issued the following statement: “We are deeply saddened and concerned by the death of Mr. Earl Manuel, Sr. in the custody of the Cole County Jail. We are calling for an immediate, thorough, and independent investigation by the Missouri State Highway Patrol to ensure that all circumstances surrounding Mr. Manuel’s death are fully transparent. Furthermore, we demand that all findings be shared with Mr. Manuel’s family and the public.” 

Rev. Daryl Gray, Director General for Social Justice, Progressive National Baptist Convention added: “This tragic incident raises serious questions about the care and oversight provided to inmates, especially those with known health issues. We stand with Mr. Manuel’s family in seeking truth and justice.”

The family of Earl Manuel, Sr. expressed their grief and frustration, stating: “We have lost a beloved family member under circumstances that remain unclear. We deserve to know what happened, and we call on the authorities to provide us with the answers we need to find closure.”

About NAACP: Founded in 1909, the NAACP is the nation’s oldest and largest civil rights organization. Our mission is to ensure the political, educational, social, and economic equality of rights of all persons and to eliminate race-based discrimination.