Tragedy befell the Frankfort community as a local man died following his arrest on multiple charges, including a warrant and drug-related offenses. The Frankfort Police Department confirmed on their Facebook page that Michael Hanthorne, 33, from Frankfort, encountered officers while allegedly banging on doors in the 4500 Block of West Jackson Street. According to the Frankfort Police Department's social media post, the incident escalated when Hanthorne was reported to have placed an item that tested presumptive positive for methamphetamine into a vehicle not belonging to him, and crossed the threshold of a residence only to be met by an armed homeowner.
Arrested without incident at 6:22 a.m., Hanthorne faced a felony warrant for Theft out of Montgomery County and new charges including Residential Entry and Possession of Methamphetamine. The arresting officers followed protocol, requiring a medical clearance form before Hanthorne could be admitted to the Clinton County Jail. The suspect was taken to IU Frankfort hospital and entered with officers at 6:47 a.m. Subsequently, he experienced what was described as a "serious medical episode," and despite lifesaving efforts, passed away at 8:46 a.m., according to the Frankfort Police Department.
In light of the unexpected turn of events, Clinton County Coroner Ed Cripe has stepped in to lead an investigation into the cause and manner of Hanthorne’s death. The responsibility for probing the circumstances surrounding the arrest falls to FPD detectives, with assistance from the narcotics unit. Chief Scott Shoemaker expressed his sorrow over the occurrence, stating, "Regardless of the criminal allegations, a member of our community has died. My thoughts are with Michael's family, the medical staff at IU Frankfort and our officers who thought they were conducting a routine arrest this morning. This is not the outcome anyone wanted today." This statement was obtained expressly from the Frankfort Police Department's Facebook announcement.
The Frankfort Police Department urges anyone with information about Hanthorne’s activities, especially those connected to the methamphetamine incident, to step forward. Detective Joshua Danner can be reached at 765-654-4245 ext. 9281 for any pertinent tips or information.
