Location: Bob Wiley Detention Facility, Visalia

Incident Date: 6/6/17

Incident Time: 0859 hours

Case Number: 17-06777

Victim: Ricky E. Lewis

City: Visaiia

Posted by: Media Relations

On 6-6-17, The Tulare County Sheriff's Office Violent Crimes Unit was requested to respond to the Bob Wiley Detention Facility regarding an in-custody death of an inmate, Ricky E. Lewis.

During the investigation, it was learned that the inmate, Ricky E. Lewis, 62,  had been in custody approximately three weeks.  While incarcerated, Lewis was diagnosed with several pre-existing health issues. 

On the morning of 6/06/17, Lewis notified medical staff he was not feeling well.  He was moved to the facility infirmary. Shortly thereafter, he collapsed and detention facility medical staff began CPR.  Ambulance personnel arrived at the facility and further life-savings attempts were performed.  

Lewis was later pronounced deceased at the jail. Next of kin was notified.

This case remains active with the TCSO Violent Crimes Unit. Anyone with information may contact the Tulare County Sheriff's Office at (559) 733-6218 or anonymously through our TipNow Program at (559) 725-4194 or tcso@tipnow.com.