Frank Valdes
Frank Valdes, 36, was a born-again Christian, according to Van Poyck, who said he was trying to bring other men held at Florida State Prison near Starke to his faith. In July 1999 he died there, and several men held at the prison described guards beating him in his cell. Van Poyck said Valdes was the most vocal protester of the beatings, demanding that guards stop and send medical help. Officers' attorneys first said his injuries were self-inflicted, but autopsies found every rib broken and boot marks on his body, and the FBI and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement opened investigations.
Cause of death, as reported: Killed by staff (disputed). Several inmates say guards beat Frank Valdes in his cell in July 1999, and the FDLE and FBI opened investigations; officers' attorneys first said his injuries were self-inflicted, while autopsies found every rib broken and boot marks on his body.
Reported by: Several inmates (witnesses); Florida Department of Law Enforcement (outside investigators); FBI (outside investigators); Officers' attorneys; Autopsies (medical examiner or coroner).