A family is demanding answers after learning about the death of MarQuiel Ross, an inmate at the Oklahoma State Penitentiary, under troubling circumstances. They claim they were notified on September 19, though the medical examiner’s report states Ross died a week earlier, on September 12.
Delayed Release and Confusion Over Location
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Ross, initially scheduled for release in November 2023, faced repeated delays, leaving his family confused and concerned. Despite being a nonviolent offender with no prior record, Ross was transferred from the Jackie Brannon Correctional Center to the Oklahoma State Penitentiary in McAlester. The Oklahoma Department of Corrections (ODOC) attributed the move to an alleged assault on a staff member, though no official report or criminal charges were filed.
Family’s Struggle for Information
As Ross’s discharge date kept shifting, his family struggled to locate him. Calls to caseworkers went unanswered, and they only learned of his transfer through online searches. Even after being told Ross would be released on July 5, the date passed with no resolution. Weeks later, they were informed his release was delayed again, ultimately set for September 12.
Tragic News and Discrepancies
On September 19, the family received shocking news through a third party—a fellow inmate’s relative—that Ross had died. The prison confirmed he was killed in an assault on September 17. However, the autopsy revealed Ross’s body had been received by the medical examiner on September 12, raising serious questions about the timeline.
When the family sought to retrieve Ross’s remains, they discovered he had already been sent to a funeral home for cremation, which they managed to halt. Upon seeing his body, they described extensive injuries inconsistent with the initial account of his death.
Calls for Transparency and Justice
ODOC stated they attempted to contact Ross’s family but were unsuccessful, following policy to cremate unclaimed remains. However, the family disputes this, arguing they had been in regular communication during Ross’s incarceration and believe the department is withholding information.
State Representative J.J. Humphrey has called for an independent investigation, questioning the lack of documentation for the alleged assault and the handling of Ross’s case. Meanwhile, ODOC maintains Ross’s transfer and the disciplinary actions taken were appropriate.
Moving Forward
The family, now represented by legal counsel, is determined to uncover the truth. They hope for accountability and justice for MarQuiel Ross, whose death has left them with more questions than answers.
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