Michael Whitworth
Michael Whitworth, 46, was attacked by another prisoner at the Iowa State Penitentiary in Fort Madison in October 2016 and was flown to University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics with severe head and facial injuries. He died there on October 30, 2016. Mike Hensch, administrator of the Johnson County Medical Examiner's office, ruled his death a homicide from blunt force injuries to the head. Prosecutors said surveillance video shows the attack continued after he fell and appeared unconscious. A prison union said the state delayed announcing his death until after the November 2016 election and played down the case, while the Department of Corrections said a review committee is examining the circumstances.
Cause of death, as reported: Killed by another person in custody. Johnson County Medical Examiner administrator Mike Hensch ruled the death a homicide from blunt force head injuries, and prosecutors say surveillance video shows the attack continued after he fell; a prison union said the state delayed announcing the death and covered up safety lapses.
Reported by: Johnson County Medical Examiner administrator Mike Hensch (medical examiner or coroner); prosecutors.