A routine security check at the Portage County Jail in Ravenna turned fatal when staff found a 42-year-old inmate unresponsive in her cell. Corrections staff immediately started life-saving measures, but she was later pronounced dead.
In a press release posted by the Portage County Sheriff's Office, officials identified the woman as Pauline Ferrell and said the discovery occurred on Sunday. The release, authored by Bryan D. Morgenstern, states that corrections staff performed both basic and advanced life-saving measures after finding her, and that the case is under investigation.
Investigation Under Way
Authorities have not released a cause of death or indicated whether an autopsy has been ordered. The sheriff's statement did not offer further detail about what led up to the discovery or what happened inside the cell before staff arrived.
What We Know So Far
According to the sheriff's office release, Ferrell was 42 years old and was discovered during a routine security check at the Portage County Jail in Ravenna. Corrections staff began life-saving treatment immediately after finding her unresponsive.
The Facebook post that identified Ferrell was published March 16 and notes that the incident remains under investigation, with additional information being withheld while that inquiry continues.
Officials have not provided more specifics about the circumstances surrounding her death. Further details may be released as the investigation moves forward.
