19-Year-Old Girl Discovered Dead In Jail Cell After Being Arrested For A Misdemeanor

Noni Battiste-Kosoko, 19, was discovered unconscious in her jail cell on July 16.

Now, her relatives want answers regarding her death that occurred at the Atlanta City Detention Center, in Georgia.

Battiste-Kosoko had been jailed since May 20 because of a misdemeanor bench warrant. This was after she didn’t show up in court regarding vandalism and trespassing charges back in February. Detectives say that she had no bond because of more charges coming out of Florida.

“Our family is committed to uncovering all the facts surrounding this shocking and unfortunate occurrence,” Battiste-Kosoko’s family said through a statement. They added that the teen suffered from mental illness.

“If it is discovered that Noni’s death is the fault of those who were responsible for her care, they will be held accountable,” they added.

“My child was arrested for a misdemeanor and died in jail. We want answers!” her mother noted.

Two days following Battiste-Kosoko’s death, the U.S. Department of Justice started a civil investigation into conditions at Fulton County jails. They will determine if Fulton County and the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office discriminate against individuals with psychiatric illnesses inside of the jail.