Died in prison
James Leslie Karis
James Leslie Karis Jr., 61, was pronounced dead at 6:40 a.m. on January 31, 2013, in his single cell on death row at San Quentin State Prison, where he was held. Prison officials said he was found alone in his cell and that there were no obvious signs of suicide. The El Dorado County District Attorney, Vern Pierson, later said he died of natural causes.
Cause of death, as reported: Died of illness. El Dorado County District Attorney Vern Pierson said he died of natural causes, while prison officials said the cause was unknown pending an autopsy.
Reported by: El Dorado County District Attorney Vern Pierson.