GALLERY – The family of 18 year old Mielun Butler is seeking answers and accountability following his death while in custody at the Hinds County Detention Center

The family of 18 year old Mielun Butler is seeking answers and accountability following his death while in custody at the Hinds County Detention Center. On Jul. 16th, Attorney Dennis Sweet announced that a notice of claim has been filed, the first step toward potential legal action and is calling for an FBI investigation into social media posts he says may have contributed to the fatal assault. Hinds County Sheriff Tyree Jones confirmed that federal partners have been contacted for assistance. Butler was found unresponsive in his cell on July 3rd after being arrested days earlier in connection with a homicide investigation. Authorities have stated they believe his death may have been an act of retaliation by fellow detainees. Butler’s family maintains he was innocent of the charges against him and remembers him as a recent Lanier High School graduate who planned to attend Hinds Community College and pursue a career in business. The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation is leading the homicide investigation, while the Hinds County Sheriff’s Office continues an internal review. One detention officer has been placed on paid administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigations. (Advocate Photos: Joshua Martin)