Former San Francisco 49ers Quarterback Colin Kaepernick has reportedly offered to pay for an independent autopsy of LaShawn Thompson. The former NFL star is reportedly working with the family and their attorney, Ben Crump, to arrange for the examination to take place.
In June 2022, Thompson, a 35-year-old man who split his time in between Florida and Georgia, was arrested and hit with a misdemeanor assault charge. After being taken into custody, the 35-year-old man was reportedly moved to the psychiatric wing of the facility due to his mental health struggles. Three months into his time at the jail, Thompson was pronounced dead. An initial report from the Fulton County Medical Examiner listed the cause of Thompson’s death as “undetermined.” The report also listed schizoaffective disorder and bipolar as “other conditions.” However, Thompson’s family and close friends beg to differ.
Within the last month, the death of LaShawn Thompson has attracted the attention of journalists, lawmakers and community leaders from around the country. Photos released by attorney Michael Harper appear to show Thompson’s deceased body covered in insects. Further reporting highlights the poor living conditions Thompson endured along with a note from the Fulton County Medical Examiner that acknowledges a “severe bed bug infestation” was present at the time of his death. All things considered, Thompson’s family says that he was “eaten alive by bed bugs” and those around him did little to help.
“We understand, and I have said this publicly, this is absolutely unconscionable, point blank,” Fulton County Sheriff Pat Labat said.
This month, several Fulton County Jail staff members have resigned. U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff has launched an inquiry into the conditions of the Fulton County Jail and detention facilities around the country. Now, Thompson’s family is calling for a federal investigation.
“The jail cell Mr. Thompson was housed in, was not fit for a diseased animal,” Harper said.
“He did not deserve this.”
