Kentucky state senator proposes legislation drawing attention to in-custody deaths
FRANKFORT, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – A new legislative push at the Kentucky Capitol is drawing attention to deaths that happen during arrests and inside jails — including a Madison County case that’s still under investigation.
State Sen. Keturah J. Herron, D-Louisville, announced a multi-part legislative package Thursday aimed at strengthening transparency, independent review, and prevention efforts surrounding arrest-related deaths. The announcement came during an event in Frankfort attended by families, advocates, and lawmakers.
Herron’s proposals come as a Madison County family continues to seek answers following the death of Dion Watts, a Richmond man whose attorney says died after an incident inside the Madison County Detention Center.
Madison County case at center of discussion
Watts was arrested Dec. 31, 2025, on a nonviolent misdemeanor trespassing charge after police say he refused to leave a Richmond convenience store. An arrest citation lists charges of third-degree criminal trespass, second-degree disorderly conduct and public intoxication involving a controlled substance.
According to the family’s attorney, Watts was experiencing a mental health crisis at the time. The attorney alleges that once inside the detention center, officers failed to de-escalate the situation and used excessive force when Watts refused to leave a holding area.
Watts’ family says he later died at UK Hospital from injuries sustained while in custody. Kentucky State Police are conducting an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death, according to Richmond Mayor Robert Blythe.
Watts’ uncle, Vic Watts, said the family continues to struggle with the loss.
“My nephew shouldn’t be gone,” he said. “This has really been a rough time.”
What the new legislation proposes
According to Herron’s press release and legislative materials, the package includes two bills and a resolution focused on increasing oversight and prevention.
One proposal would expand post-mortem reporting requirements to include deaths that occur during arrests or while someone is being transported to jail. Another measure would create an independent External Detainee Fatality Review Panel with access to key records to examine deaths involving law enforcement custody.
A third piece would establish a task force to explore alternative community responses to mental health crises — something Herron said is urgently needed as traditional law enforcement responses may not always be the safest option.
Herron said the goal is to ensure families get answers and that future tragedies are prevented.
“People deserve to know that when someone dies in custody or during an arrest, there will be a clear process that produces answers, accountability, and changes that prevent the next loss,” she said in the release.
Advocates call for transparency
During Thursday’s event, advocates and family members of people who have died in custody spoke about the need for independent review and better public reporting.
The American Civil Liberties Union of Kentucky also voiced support, saying the proposed legislation could help ensure that future deaths are properly documented and examined, while strengthening public trust.
Herron’s proposals have been filed and are now before the Kentucky General Assembly for consideration during the 2026 Regular Session.
Meanwhile, the investigation into Dion Watts’ death remains ongoing, and officials say any further action will be guided by the findings once that investigation is complete.
